In a significant political development, Prof. Anthony Ani has clinched the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket for the by-election in Ebonyi South Senatorial District, scheduled for February 3, 2024. Ani, a distinguished professor of Agricultural Extension at the Federal University of Owerri, Imo State, secured a resounding victory by garnering 281 out of the 285 votes cast.
The chairman of the electoral panel, Akin Akinsehinwa, announced the results of the party primaries at the Afikpo North Local Government Secretariat, Ebonyi South Headquarters. He emphasized that the primaries were conducted in strict accordance with the Electoral Act and the APC constitution.
Ani emerged as the uncontested winner, as one of the aspirants, Ann Agom Eze, who had initially indicated interest by purchasing the nomination form, failed to return it and skipped the screening process.
The by-election is necessitated by the departure of Senator Dave Umahi, who vacated the seat after being appointed as the Minister of Works by President Bola Tinubu. Notably, Umahi recently endorsed Ani as the APC consensus candidate for the by-election, further solidifying Ani’s candidacy.
During a visit to the state governor, Francis Nwifuru, Umahi wholeheartedly endorsed the decision of the state working committee of the APC, affirming his unwavering support for Ani. He underlined the significance of this election as the first under the leadership of the state governor, emphasizing the opportunity to demonstrate unified commitment and support for the APC in Ebonyi.
The upcoming by-election, set against the backdrop of these developments, holds immense importance for the political landscape of Ebonyi South Senatorial District. With Ani’s emergence as the APC candidate and the backing of influential figures within the party, the stage is set for a compelling electoral contest that will shape the region’s political trajectory.
