ENUGU — As political activities gradually begin to shape the narrative ahead of the 2027 general elections, renewed social media criticisms against Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah have reignited debate on the influence of online propaganda versus grassroots performance in determining electoral outcomes.

In a widely circulated opinion article titled “2027: Governor Mbah and the Social Media Montebanks,” public affairs commentator Samson Ezea reflects on the 2023 Enugu governorship election, arguing that Governor Mbah’s victory was secured not by digital popularity but by strategic grassroots mobilisation, discipline, and consistent voter engagement at polling units.

Ezea recalled that despite internal sabotage within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the bandwagon effect of the 2023 presidential election, Mbah remained focused on ground-level campaigning rather than engaging in online mudslinging. According to him, the governor was among the most vilified candidates on social media during the election period but maintained calm and strategic discipline.

“Elections are not won on timelines but at polling units,” Ezea noted, stressing that despite intense propaganda, cyber-attacks, and coordinated online campaigns, Mbah emerged victorious at the polls, stunning critics who relied heavily on digital narratives rather than field structures.

Following the election, opposition parties pursued legal challenges but reportedly continued online campaigns, including attacks on the judiciary. These efforts, Ezea stated, failed after the Supreme Court affirmed Mbah’s mandate, effectively closing the chapter on the 2023 contest.

In a conciliatory move after his victory, Governor Mbah extended an olive branch to political opponents, many of whom accepted reconciliation, leaving minimal visible opposition in the state as preparations gradually shift toward 2027.

The article further highlighted key governance milestones under the Mbah administration, particularly in the water sector. One of the governor’s campaign promises was to restore pipe-borne water within 180 days of assuming office. According to available data cited by the author, water production reportedly increased from about 2,000 cubic metres to over 120,000 cubic metres, alongside ongoing pipe-laying and replacement projects across several parts of the state, including Onu Asata and Okpara Avenue.

While acknowledging that water supply has not yet reached every street, the commentary cautioned against dismissing the administration’s efforts, noting that large-scale infrastructure projects often encounter logistical and technical challenges. Residents in several communities, it added, have begun enjoying improved access to water after years of shortages.

Beyond water infrastructure, Ezea observed that the administration has embarked on additional projects outside its original campaign promises, reflecting what he described as a proactive and people-oriented governance approach.

The article also addressed renewed criticisms following Governor Mbah’s defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), arguing that some political actors have reverted to spreading misinformation about the government’s performance. While affirming the importance of constructive opposition in a democratic society, Ezea emphasized that criticism must be rooted in verifiable facts rather than propaganda.

Describing the governor’s leadership style as fast-paced and multisectoral, the author suggested that the administration’s most visible challenge may be the simultaneous execution of numerous projects, rather than lack of performance.

Looking ahead to 2027, Ezea warned political actors against repeating the mistakes of the 2023 elections by over-relying on social media narratives. He noted that Governor Mbah continues to enjoy broad grassroots support, including backing from political leaders who defected alongside him to the APC and have publicly declared support for his second-term ambition.

“Political relevance is tested at polling units, not on social media timelines,” the article asserted, adding that Governor Mbah’s growing national recognition and expanding responsibilities within the ruling party reflect his perceived performance and leadership capacity.

Ezea concluded that Enugu voters are increasingly discerning and less susceptible to propaganda, urging political stakeholders to prioritize credible engagement, issue-based campaigns, and developmental accountability rather than digital sensationalism.

As political momentum gradually builds toward 2027, the unfolding contest in Enugu State appears set to test once again whether online influence can truly outweigh tangible governance outcomes and grassroots credibility.