The recent gubernatorial elections in Nigeria have produced a mixed bag of emotions. While the people of Abia State are filled with joy over the announcement of Dr. Alex Otti as the winner, the rest of the country remains cast in gloom over the outcome and process that led to the declarations of victors in the federal and state level elections.
The outgoing governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, quickly congratulated Dr. Alex Otti after the announcement was made, showcasing a display of sportsmanship. Meanwhile, in Plateau and Zamfara, where the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) won, and Borno, where the All Progressives Congress (APC) retained their hold, the relief among Nigerians was palpable.
However, the situation was not always so positive in Abia State. In the last election, the lead of Dr. Alex Otti was swallowed up by the results from Obingwa Local Government Area office of INEC. This time, the BVAS machine acted as an antidote to rigging. BVAS machines in Obingwa only captured 26,884 voters, which made it difficult for riggers to change the election outcome. The returning officer, Professor Nnenna Oti, stood her ground and allowed the vote of the people to stand. Her statement that the people’s mandate shall stand is now famous, and her exemplary conduct is a positive takeaway from the election season.
Overall, the conduct of Professor Oti and APGA candidate, Prof Gregory Ibe, are worthwhile positives that many Nigerians are taking away from the election season that has generally been shadowed by gloom. The people of Abia State have reason to celebrate, but the rest of the country remains in a state of uncertainty and u
nease.