In a significant shift, the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) won 15 of the 17 local government chairmanship positions in Abia State, leaving the ruling Labour Party without any seats. The Young Progressives Party (YPP) secured the remaining two seats in Ugwunagbo and Osisioma Ngwa.
Announcing the results, George Chima, chairman of the Abia State Independent Electoral Commission (ABSIEC), praised the smooth and peaceful conduct of the elections, which saw participation from over 12 political parties – a notable achievement for the commission. Chima commended both winners and participants for fostering peace and maintaining order.
Governor Alex Otti, who cast his vote in Isiala Ngwa South, described the election as an embodiment of democracy, emphasizing that citizens should vote based on candidates’ credibility, not political affiliations, to ensure effective governance at the grassroots level. The governor noted that, except for minor disruptions quickly managed by security in Ohafia and Obingwa, the election ran smoothly across all 4,062 polling units.
