Like it happened in Rivers State last month, Labour Party (LP), the ruling party in Abia State failed to win any chairmanship position in last Saturday’s Local Government election.

When the Chairman of the Abia State Independent Electoral Commission (ABSIEC), Prof George Chima, announced the result of the poll at the commission’s headquarters in Umuahia, the state capital, the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) clinched 15 chairmanship seats, while the Young Progressives Party (YPP) won two seats.

The ABSIEC boss said that the chairmanship and councillorship polls took place in the 17 Local Government Areas (LGAs). He described the exercise as “free fair and credible”, describing the election as a demonstration of the commission’s dedication, focus and efficiency.

Already, the 17 chairmanship winners were yesterday evening issued their Certificates of Return by ABSIEC. The Commission boss, Prof. George Chima charged them to align themselves and emulate the good works of the governor, Dr Alex Otti, noting that what Abia needs is a holistic representation and good governance.

Noting that the Certificates of Return are the instruments that qualify them to be sworn into office, Chima further advised them to work amicably, progressively and closely with their deputies to effect efficient service delivery.

Responding, they appreciated ABSIEC for conducting a free and fair election and the electorate for voting for them, promising to justify their election while in office.