In a significant development, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Anambra State has officially rejected the results of the recent local government elections, citing irregularities in the electoral process. The elections, held on September 28, 2024, saw the Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission (ANSIEC) declare candidates from the ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) as winners across all 21 local government areas and 326 wards.
The chairman of ANSIEC, Genevieve Osakwe, described the election as free, fair, credible, and peaceful. However, PDP’s state chairman, Chigozie Igwe, vehemently disagreed with this characterization. In an interview in Awka, Igwe labeled the election a charade, asserting that the PDP had not boycotted the elections like other parties and was therefore well-positioned to challenge the results.
Igwe expressed frustration over the conduct of the election, stating that ANSIEC failed to distribute materials and officials equitably. He noted that no results were released at various polling stations, including Zikdton Primary School in Nza Ozubulu, where he cast his vote. They conducted a charade in the name of the election. We are rejecting whatever result they released, he declared.
Reports from various polling units indicated low voter turnout and numerous complaints regarding the absence of electoral officials. The PDP is currently studying the details of the election process and is preparing to challenge the results legally.
As the leading opposition party in Anambra, Igwe emphasized that the PDP would stand for accountability and ensure that local government autonomy is respected. “We will make sure any chairman who misuses local government funds is prosecuted,” he added.This rejection of election results adds to ongoing tensions in Nigerian politics as parties prepare for future electoral challenges amid calls for transparency and fairness in the electoral process.
