Ebonyi LG Polls: Umahi, Ani, others commend turnout, peaceful conduct

Ebonyi State's local government elections concluded peacefully on Saturday, with prominent figures such as Osbourne Umahi, Senator Anthony Ani, and Kama Nkemkanma expressing satisfaction with the voter turnout and the orderly conduct of the polls. The election took place across several local government areas, including Ohaozara, Onicha, and Ivo, with numerous candidates vying for leadership positions. Osborne Umahi, the APC chairmanship candidate for Ohaozara Local Government Area, cast his vote at the Onuofukulu polling unit in Umunaga, Uburu, Ohaozara LGA. Afterward, he praised the peaceful nature of the election and acknowledged the high level of public participation. Umahi, whose father serves as the Minister of Works, stated that he was pleased with how the election unfolded and believed the results would accurately reflect the will of the electorate. He encouraged all stakeholders to sustain the calm environment until the final tallying of votes was complete. Senator Anthony Ani, representing Ebonyi South Senatorial District, also commended the election, emphasizing its significance as a demonstration of the state's dedication to democratic values. Ani, who voted in Onicha Local Government Area, noted that the state maintained peace throughout the day, supported by robust security arrangements. He highlighted that the election underscored the importance of democratic principles and stressed that the quality of governance delivered by elected leaders should take precedence over the frequency of elections. Ani argued that the focus must remain on ensuring that the outcomes benefit the populace rather than being overshadowed by debates over electoral cycles. Kama Nkemkanma, the member representing Ohaozara/Onicha/Ivo Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, observed similar positive developments during his visit to Ishiagu, Ivo LGA. He remarked that the high voter turnout indicated a genuine interest among residents in local government affairs. Nkemkanma expressed confidence in the APC's prospects and called on the eventual winner to prioritize service to the community. He also refuted claims that the election was a one-party affair, asserting that no political group faced obstacles in securing nominations or participating in the contest. Nkemkanma pointed out that the lack of strong opposition in certain regions did not reflect poorly on the APC, as candidates were free to apply for candidacy through the Ebonyi State Independent Electoral Commission (EBSIEC). He advised newly elected officials to align themselves with their party’s framework and await guidance on future political actions. Valentine Okike-Uzor, the Commissioner for Special Duties, cast his ballot at the Onu Borehole polling unit in Onicha LGA. He emphasized that voting represented a fundamental constitutional right and voiced confidence in the APC's chances of success. Okike-Uzor urged the incoming chairman to view himself as the representative of all residents, regardless of political allegiance. He dismissed allegations of vote-buying at his polling station and expressed trust in the integrity of the electoral process. Francis Ori, the Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, also endorsed the election's conduct after casting his vote at the Onuofukulu polling unit in Umunaga, Uburu, Ohaozara LGA. Ori extended gratitude to Governor Francis Nwifuru for fostering a tranquil environment and recognized the efforts of EBSIEC in managing the election smoothly. He noted the strong turnout at his polling unit and reiterated support for the ongoing electoral process.