Abia State Local Government Election a “Charade,” Says Former Commissioner John Okiyi Kalu | #NwokeukwuMascot

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John Okiyi Kalu

Umuahia – Chief John Okiyi Kalu, former Commissioner for Trade and Investment in Abia State, has raised serious concerns about the credibility of Saturday’s Local Government Election, calling it a “charade.” His remarks were made during an interview with journalists at the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) State Congress held in Umuahia.

Kalu, a prominent member of the PDP and a vocal critic of the current state administration, expressed disappointment over the conduct of the election, suggesting it was marred by irregularities that undermined its legitimacy. “The so-called election was nothing but a joke,” he stated. “It is unfortunate that what should have been a democratic exercise turned into a travesty, failing to meet even basic standards of fairness and transparency.”

His remarks come in response to reports of an unusually high voter turnout in some local government areas, particularly Ohafia, where the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) won the chairmanship race with an unprecedented 30,223 votes out of 56,930 total votes cast. This figure contrasts sharply with the 2023 governorship election turnout in the same area, which had significantly lower numbers despite the broader electoral interest that general elections typically generate.

Kalu, along with other analysts, questioned the possibility of a local government poll drawing more voters than a general election, a scenario he described as “highly suspicious.” “Local elections typically see lower participation, not a sudden surge in turnout that surpasses even the governorship election figures. The outcome of this election lacks credibility,” he added.

PDP leaders at the congress echoed Kalu’s concerns, alleging that the election was manipulated to favor certain parties aligned with the state administration. Kalu urged Abians and the wider political community to hold the current government accountable for what he described as “an orchestrated display lacking democratic integrity.”

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Kalu’s criticisms have further intensified scrutiny on Governor Alex Otti’s administration, which is already facing allegations of election irregularities. Calls for an investigation into the election have been mounting, with many urging the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to examine the credibility of the results.

As PDP leaders and party members continue to voice their concerns, Kalu’s statements underscore growing tension in Abia’s political landscape. The implications of the disputed local government election are likely to fuel further debate and potentially impact upcoming elections in the state.