Opposition political parties in Enugu State yesterday expressed satisfaction with the conduct of last weekend’s local council elections, describing it as free, fair and credible.

Addressing journalists in Enugu, opposition party members under the aegis of the Coalition of Registered Political Parties (CRPP), particularly commended the Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission (ENSIEC) for providing the platform that made the process possible.

The members, who said they monitored the process across the state on Saturday, said they were satisfied with how electoral stakeholders approached it, stressing that it was devoid of rancour.

State Chairman of the Coalition, Dr Afam Ani, while commending security agencies for the conducive atmosphere that prevailed throughout the process, stated that there were no reports of violence, snatching, or manipulation of the exercise.

He said the state may improve its democratic practice through the exercise and urged it to continue.

“The election was conducted in a calm and orderly manner across the various local council areas, wards and polling units of the state.

“We particularly acknowledge the efforts of ENSIEC in providing all participating political parties with a level playing field throughout the electoral process. The Commission’s engagement with stakeholders, adherence to established electoral guidelines, and transparent administration of the election contributed significantly to the confidence reposed in the process by political parties and the electorate,” he stated.

The Coalition also appreciated Governor Peter Mbah for “being a true democrat,” while encouraging stakeholders to continue to uphold the principles of democracy, political tolerance, and peaceful coexistence, which are essential for the progress and development of the state.

It could be recalled that in the results announced by the Chairman of ENSIEC, Prof. Christian Ngwu, on Sunday, the All Progressives Congress (APC) won all 17 chairmanship and 260 ward councillorship seats in the state.