The Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) emerged victorious in 15 out of 17 Local Government Areas in the local government elections held on November 2 in Abia State.

Meanwhile, the Young Peoples Party claimed victory in the remaining two LGAs.

The Abia State Independent Electoral Commission Chairman, Prof. George Chima, announced the results at the commission’s headquarters in Umuahia, the state capital, on Saturday.

Chima expressed pride in fulfilling their duty, despite the challenges. “We went above and beyond to raise awareness about the election across the state,” he said.

The commission confirmed that over 12 political parties participated in the elections, a feat Chima said has not been achieved in recent times.

Chima also confirmed that the election was “free, fair, and credible” across all 17 LGAs, completed within two months, a task that typically takes six to twelve months.

The commission chairman congratulated both winners and opposition, emphasizing the need for peace in Abia.

He said, “In any election, there are winners and losers, but the most important thing is that Abia remains peaceful. I urge everyone to uphold this peace.”

He also thanked security agencies for their support and commended political parties for “playing by the rules”.

Rumours had circulated before the election that state governor Alex Otti, a Labour Party member, backed the ZLP.