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The Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) has won 15 out of the 17 Local Government Areas in Abia State during Saturday’s council election.

The Young Progressives Party (YPP) won the remaining two LGAs.

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Results were announced by Prof. George Chima, Chairman of the Abia State Independent Electoral Commission, at the commission’s headquarters in Umuahia on Saturday.

He stated, “We have fulfilled the duty we were inaugurated on September 5 to carry out. It wasn’t an easy task, but we went above and beyond to raise awareness about the election across the state.”

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Chima highlighted the election’s significance, noting, “In recent times, this commission has not conducted an election with over 12 political parties participating. This, in itself, is a milestone for the commission.” He confirmed that the election was held across all 17 LGAs and described it as “free, fair, and credible.”

He added, “We have been able to complete a task that could typically take six to twelve months within a span of two months.” Chima congratulated both the winners and the opposition, stressing the importance of maintaining peace in Abia: “In any election, there are winners and losers, but the most important thing is that Abia remains peaceful. I urge everyone to uphold this peace.”

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The chairman also expressed gratitude to security agencies for their support and commended political parties for “playing by the rules.”

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Hon. Oladotun Olakanle, the Chairman of Onigbongbo Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in Lagos State, has died at the age of 54.

Known affectionately as Tant’olorun, Olakanle’s passing comes four years after his predecessor, Babatunde Oke, died while in office in August 2020.

Late Olakanle

Olakanle, who served as Vice Chairman before assuming the top position, was sworn in by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu after being elected for a three-year term in 2021.

He was among the 57 chairmen inaugurated by Sanwo-Olu following a successful election for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Reports indicate that Olakanle passed away on Saturday after a brief illness.

Governor Sanwo-Olu Mourns

In a condolence message, Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed his deep sorrow over Olakanle’s death, describing it as a significant loss to the Onigbongbo LCDA, the APC, and the state of Lagos.

He characterized Olakanle as a dedicated party member and committed public servant with a profound understanding of local governance.

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“On behalf of my family and the government of Lagos State, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the residents of Onigbongbo LCDA on the passing of Hon. Oladotun Olakanle. His death is a personal loss to me and a painful blow to both his council and Lagos State,” Sanwo-Olu stated.

The governor lauded Olakanle for his dedication to the community, noting his impactful contributions during his tenure.

“He was a loyal politician and an invaluable asset to the APC, and his absence will be felt throughout the political landscape, particularly in Onigbongbo LCDA,” he added.

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Sanwo-Olu also highlighted Olakanle’s commitment to the progress of his council and praised his administration’s achievements over the past four years.

He concluded with a prayer for Olakanle’s soul to rest in peace and for comfort for his family and the community.

Dr. Alex Otti, the Governor of Abia State, participated in today’s Local Government elections, casting his vote at Polling Unit 17, Ward 5 in Isiala Ngwa South, alongside his wife, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, around 12:45 p.m.

Following his voting, Governor Otti expressed his satisfaction with the smooth conduct of the election, stating that reports indicated a largely peaceful process across the state’s 4,062 polling units.

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He acknowledged minor disturbances in Ohafia and Obingwa Local Government Areas, which security forces quickly addressed.

Emphasizing the importance of effective local governance, Otti urged voters to prioritize selecting credible candidates who can drive progress, irrespective of their political affiliations.

He stated, “To continue enjoying the benefits of democracy and good governance, it’s essential to focus on candidates’ integrity rather than their party.”

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Voters in Abia State are currently casting their ballots in today’s local government elections to elect chairpersons for the state’s 17 Local Government Areas and 184 councillorship positions.

DAILY GAZETTE correspondent monitoring the exercise reports that there is a high voter turnout at the polling units visited.

The Abia State Independent Electoral Commission (ABSIEC) held a stakeholders’ meeting on September 21, where representatives from 18 political parties discussed the electoral process.

DAILY GAZETTE recall that the All Progressives Congress (APC) had on September, announced its withdrawal from the elections.

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The Abia State Government imposed a restriction on movement starting at midnight on Friday, which will last until 4:00 PM today.

Okey Kanu, the state’s commissioner for Information, emphasized that only those engaged in essential services would be allowed to move freely, provided they present valid identification.

ABSIEC officials have urged voters to maintain peace and order during the voting period.