By Ayomide Otitoju
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has secured a sweeping victory in 30 out of the 31 local government areas in Akwa Ibom State, following the local government elections held on Saturday, October 5. The Akwa Ibom State Independent Electoral Commission (AKISIEC), led by Chairman Aniedi Ikoiwak, announced the results at its headquarters on Udo Udoma Avenue.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) claimed victory in Essien Udim, the local government area of Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Despite this win, the PDP dominated the elections, also securing the majority of councillorship positions across the state.
However, the APC has rejected the outcome, alleging widespread rigging, violence, and electoral malpractice. In a statement signed by the party’s state publicity secretary, OtoAbasi Udo, the APC accused AKISIEC of compromising the election’s integrity in favor of the PDP.
The statement read: “AKISIEC conducted the local government elections on October 5, 2024, but the process was heavily biased towards the ruling party. There was a shortage of election materials, disenfranchising many voters, alongside instances of financial inducements by the PDP. Nevertheless, our supporters turned out in large numbers to back our candidates.”
