The Ebonyi State Chairman of African Democratic Congress ADC, Dr. Jennifer Nwafor on Thursday hailed the peaceful conduct of the party congresses held across the 13 local government areas, 171 wards and 2,975 polling units in state describing it as the best so far in the history of Ebonyi.

Addressing journalists after the exercise Dr. Nwafor said that the turnout across the state was impressive and commended members for their participation noting that he was very exited about the absolute peace witnessed throughout the congresses.

She disclosed that the congress committees were given free hand to conduct the elections and the entire ADC fold in the state was satisfied with the exercise applauding the maturity of the stakeholders who ensured that everything went well.

While urging party supporters to remain committed, she added that the party would continue to play a significant role in the political landscape stressing that the congress will strengthening its grassroots structure ahead of the next electoral cycle.

Nwafor said the party complied with the provisions of the Electoral Act by notifying the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of the exercise, adding that security agencies monitored the process.

Speaking also thee State Secretary for Electoral Matters and INEC Liaison Officer, Engr. Basil Imoke, described the turnout as high in the areas he monitored expressing massive participation and peaceful conducts of party members high.

Speaking earlier the Chairman of the Ebonyi State ADC Congress Committee, Uche Onyeagucha, said the party would not adopt the traditional delegates system, noting that candidates would emerge through either consensus or direct primaries.

“We will not be using national delegates. Candidates will emerge either through consensus or direct primaries. We assure members of a transparent process,” he said.

Onyeagucha added that the decision was intended to deepen internal democracy and promote inclusiveness.

Secretary of the State Congress Committee, Barrister Sunday Udedibia, said the committee was committed to conducting a credible exercise.

“Our aim is to ensure that we deliver on the mandate given to us and move the party forward,” he said.

Some officials emerged through consensus in parts of the state. In Ezza North Local Government Area, Oshim Ekuma was re-elected as chairman, while Chika Igwe and Peace Nwafor were returned in Okposi Ward.

In Ekka Ward, Anayo Nwankwo who was returned as the chairman attributed the peaceful conduct of the exercise to the adoption of consensus.