The son of Nigeria’s Minister of Works, David Umahi, Osbourn Nweze Umahi, has been elected as the new chairman of Ohaozara Local Government Area in Ebonyi State following a peaceful and transparent local government election held across the state. The All Progressives Congress (APC) swept all 13 council areas and secured victory in all 171 councillorship seats, marking a significant political win for the party in the region. The election was adjudged free, fair, and credible by officials, with no major incidents reported during the voting and counting processes.
Results were announced on Sunday in Abakaliki by Patrick Enyi, Chairman of the Ebonyi State Independent Electoral Commission (EBSIEC), who confirmed that multiple political parties participated in the exercise. Other newly elected council chairmen include Mrs Peace Agwu of Ishielu, Hon. Paul Ituma of Ohaukwu, Friday Nwuhuo of Ezza North, Chinedu Mkpuma of Ezza South, Hon. Chidi Nwode of Ikwo, Engr Timothy Nwachi of Afikpo, Ikechukwu Ogbofia of Onicha, Michael Kalu Anyim of Ivo, Chief Simeon Onuoha of Edda, Mrs Helen Aduga of Izzi, Hon. Chidiebere Alo of Abakaliki, and Hon. Chibueze Odigwe of Ebonyi.
In an interview after his victory, Osbourn Umahi praised the electoral body for conducting a transparent and peaceful election. He expressed confidence in the integrity of the process and emphasized his commitment to public service. The new chairman-elect outlined plans to focus on rural development, youth empowerment, and an agricultural revolution within Ohaozara LGA. He also made a bold pledge to forfeit his monthly salary, directing the funds instead toward community projects and infrastructure development.
Umahi’s election is seen as a continuation of political influence within the Umahi family, which has played a prominent role in Ebonyi State politics. His father, David Umahi, remains a key figure in national governance as the Minister of Works. Despite this connection, Osbourn Umahi maintained that his campaign was grassroots-driven and focused on delivering tangible results for residents.
The peaceful conduct of the election has been welcomed by political stakeholders and civil society groups, who hope it sets a precedent for future elections in the state. With the APC now controlling all local government councils, attention turns to how these new leaders will address developmental challenges, including insecurity, unemployment, and poor infrastructure. The success of their leadership will likely be measured by visible improvements in communities across Ebonyi State.
Leave a Comment