LP loses ground as ZLP, YPP wins big in Abia LG polls

In the recently concluded local government elections in Abia State, Governor Alex Otti’s Labour Party (LP) suffered a significant loss, with the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) securing 15 chairmanship positions and the Young People’s Party (YPP) winning two seats.

The Labour Party failed to capture any local government chairmanship seats.

The Abia State Independent Electoral Commission (ABSIEC), led by Prof. George Chima, announced the results, commending both winners and losers for their participation and calling for sportsmanship. Chima praised the security and other stakeholders, affirming Abia’s commitment to maintaining peace.

However, the election was marked by widespread issues, including delayed distribution of electoral materials, which disrupted voting in several local government areas. ABSIEC had planned for materials to arrive at polling units by 7 am with voting to start by 8 am, but materials and officials were absent from many polling units even by 11 am. This delay affected turnout, with voters in Umuahia South, Aba North, Aba South, and Osisioma LGs either waiting or leaving due to the prolonged wait.

Some residents, disillusioned by past elections, were less inclined to participate. Mrs. Joy Eze, a hairdresser, waited at her polling unit while attending to customers, whereas another resident, Mrs. Onyinyechi Ishmael, cited a lack of faith in the electoral process as her reason for not voting.

The low turnout and logistical issues reflect ongoing challenges within the electoral system, impacting voter confidence and participation.