Former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, GCON, has emerged winner of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential primary election conducted across wards in Abia State on Monday.
Atiku secured 25,153 votes to defeat his closest challenger, former Minister of Transportation and ex-Governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi, who polled 18,339 votes. Businessman Mohammed Hayatu-deen came third with 3,264 votes.
The result of the exercise was announced in Umuahia, Abia State yesterday by the Returning Officer, Mr. Onyebuchi Chukwu.
Speaking shortly after the exercise at his country-home, Oloko, Ward One, Ikwuano Local Government Area, Abia state, Senator Augustine Okwudiri Akobundu declared that Atiku remains the most experienced and capable leader to reposition Nigeria and address the country’s growing economic and political challenges.
Akobundu, who led a massive mobilization campaign in support of the former Vice President during the political process, expressed satisfaction with the large turnout and enthusiasm displayed by supporters across the state.
According to the senator, the overwhelming support recorded during the primary election reflects the trust and confidence Nigerians have in Atiku’s leadership capacity, vision, and ability to unite the country.
He maintained that Nigeria requires a leader with extensive administrative experience, sound economic understanding, and broad national appeal, qualities he said Atiku has consistently demonstrated over the years.
Akobundu further noted that Atiku’s tenure as Vice President under former President Olusegun Obasanjo exposed him to the complexities of governance and national development, adding that he played a significant role in coordinating Nigeria’s economic management team during the administration.
The lawmaker also stated that the former Vice President possesses the political maturity and leadership depth needed to restore public confidence, stabilize the economy, and drive sustainable national development.
He expressed optimism that Atiku would emerge victorious in the party’s political exercise and ultimately lead Nigeria toward greater progress, unity, and prosperity.
Meanwhile, the Abia State Publicity Secretary of the ADC, Francess Olisa Ogbonnaya, commended party members in Arochukwu LGA and other parts of the state for their massive turnout and peaceful participation during the primary election.
