Nineteen Political Parties Seek Financial Support from Abia Government Ahead of November Local Council Elections

Nineteen political parties in Abia State have appealed to the state government for financial assistance ahead of the local council elections slated for November 2, 2024. The request was made during a meeting with the Abia State Independent Electoral Commission (ABSIEC) Chairman, Professor George Chima, at the commission’s office in Umuahia. 

During the meeting, party representatives raised concerns about the short notice given for the elections, which they claimed has made it difficult to gather the necessary funds and resources to effectively participate in campaigning. The political parties stressed that the timing of the election would make it hard for them to mobilize supporters and called on ABSIEC to intervene by urging Governor Alex Otti to release financial support to enable them to compete fairly.

The meeting was marked by the absence of the All Progressives Congress (APC), while other political parties, including the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), were present. IPAC Chairman, Uluocha Chimex of the Young Progressive Party (YPP), voiced frustration over the timing of the elections, stating that the parties needed more time and resources to prepare adequately.

Despite these concerns, Professor Chima reassured the political parties that the election would proceed as scheduled. He emphasized ABSIEC's commitment to conducting a fair and transparent electoral process, stressing that the purpose of the meeting was to unveil the election timetable and address any challenges raised by the political parties. Chima noted that the election will lead to the election of council chairmen and 184 ward councillors across Abia's 17 local government areas.

The upcoming local council elections are crucial for the governance of Abia State at the grassroots level, as they will determine leadership in the local governments and wards. Professor Chima reiterated ABSIEC’s readiness to conduct the election efficiently and reassured the political parties that their concerns would be relayed to the appropriate authorities.

  
In a related development, the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Enugu State praised the recently concluded local government elections as transparent, peaceful, and well-organized. IPAC commended the high voter turnout and lauded the absence of political interference. The body encouraged both winners and losers to work together for the progress of the state.

Observers deployed across Enugu's 17 local councils reported no incidents of violence or electoral malpractice, reflecting the smooth conduct of the elections. The success of the Enugu elections stands as a benchmark for other states, including Abia, as they prepare for their local council elections in November.

As Abia State gears up for the local council elections, the call for financial support by political parties underscores the importance of adequate preparation for a fair electoral process. ABSIEC’s commitment to transparency and fairness remains key as all eyes turn toward the November 2 elections.