Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi said he believes he has no strong opponent as he seeks re-election in the 2007 general elections.

Mr Nwifuru made the declaration on Saturday at his hometown, Oferekpe Agbaja, in Izzi Local Government Area (LGA) after voting in the council polls being held across the state.

The governor said his confidence stemmed from his acceptability by the people and numerous developmental strides that have greatly impacted the populace.

“I am the leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ebonyi, but you should expect other political parties to field candidates for various positions in the elections.

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“One should, however, expect to meet opponents who are reasonable, competitive and ready to expose your lapses.

“An opponent is supposed to teach you what you don’t know because he will not hide your lapses,” he said.

He attributed the peaceful and decorous conduct of the council polls to the level playing field offered to participants, enabling them to compete favourably.

“The APC allowed the people to choose who will lead them at the grassroots, and that is why the support is massive.

“I believe in the candidates of our party and their abilities to deliver the goods to the people who voted them.

“I believe other parties presented their own candidates, and that is why we are having a seamless process,” he said.

Mr Nwifuru noted that he had no plans to make other political parties endorse him for the gubernatorial elections because there was no need for such.

“My desire is for the people to endorse me because that is the right thing.

“My administration has been working for the people and will continue doing so,” he said.

(NAN)