The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has just declared Saturday’s governorship election in Abia State inconclusive.
The final tally saw Okezie Ikpeazu of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) winning outrightly in eight local government areas as opposed to nine LGAs by Alex Otti of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). In terms of votes, Ikpeazu ended up with 248,459 as against 165,406 by Otti.
The margin of lead (83,053 votes) was however far less than the 179,224 registered voters in polling units where results were cancelled. The State Collation Officer, Prof. Benjamin Ozumba, noted that the Electoral Law provides for the declaration of an election inconclusive when the margin of victory is less than the number of voters in areas where election was cancelled. He consequently declared the election inconclusive.
A new date is expected to be fixed soon for a supplementary election between the two heavyweight candidates.
•Photo shows INEC Chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega.
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