Ebonyi State's local government elections showcased democracy in action this Saturday, with key political figures giving the thumbs up to the peaceful conduct and turnout. Osbourne Umahi, the All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmanship candidate for Ohaozara Local Government Area, cast his vote and expressed satisfaction. Speaking at his polling unit in Onuofukulu, Umunaga, he noted that everything had been peaceful and commended the residents for coming out in their numbers.
Umahi, who's also the son of Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, said he was optimistic the results would truly reflect the will of the people. He urged all involved to keep the atmosphere calm until the final collation. It's good when people feel secure enough to participate in choosing their local leaders.
Senator Anthony Ani, representing Ebonyi South Senatorial District, also cast his ballot in Onicha Local Government Area. He described the election as proof of the state's commitment to democratic principles. He assured that security measures were in place for a smooth process. Ani also weighed in on the debate about election frequency, suggesting that the number of years between polls matters less than the quality of governance delivered by those elected.
"The priority should be for governments emerging from the elections to deliver the dividends of democracy to residents," Ani stated, emphasizing good governance over the frequency of elections.
Kama Nkemkanma, the member for Ohaozara/Onicha/Ivo Federal Constituency, shared similar positive sentiments after voting in Ishiagu, Ivo LGA. He observed that the turnout demonstrated the public's keen interest in local government administration and the activities of elected officials. "You can see that people are still coming out to vote. That means people are interested in what we're doing," Nkemkanma said.
He also pushed back against claims that the election was a one-party affair. Nkemkanma insisted that no party or individual was stopped from getting nomination forms. He stated that any lack of strong opposition in certain areas wasn't the APC's doing. He encouraged winners to focus on serving everyone in their local government, regardless of political leanings. He also advised them to work within their party structure.
Commissioner for Special Duties, Valentine Okike-Uzor, voting at his Onu Borehole unit in Onicha LGA, called participation a constitutional right. He voiced confidence in an APC win. He reminded the future chairman that their role is to lead all residents, not just party members. The commissioner also dismissed any talk of vote-buying at his polling station, praising the voter turnout.
Francis Ori, the Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, echoed the commendations after voting at his Onuofukulu polling unit in Umunaga, Ohaozara LGA. He thanked Governor Francis Nwifuru for the peaceful environment and EBSIEC for organizing the election. He noted that the turnout showed public appreciation for the administration. The officials appeared happy with how things went down.