ENUGU LG POLL: ADC ACCUSES APC OF IMPOSING CANDIDATES, DECRIES MOVEMENT RESTRICTIONS
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By: Muftau Fatimo
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Enugu State has described Saturday’s local government election as an “APC vs APC” selection process, alleging that the exercise lacked genuine competition.
The opposition party also criticised the restriction of movement imposed across the state during the election, saying it disrupted economic activities and prevented residents from going about their lawful businesses. The state government had announced restrictions on vehicular and other forms of transportation from 6am to 4pm on election day.
In a statement issued by its media team and signed by Paul Anigbogu, the ADC alleged that public funds were spent on an exercise in which, according to the party, the state government and ruling party had already selected candidates for the 17 local government chairmanship and councillorship positions.
The party further alleged that opposition parties were not provided with a level playing field, describing the election as a “coronation” of handpicked candidates.
The ADC said traders, commercial drivers and other daily income earners suffered losses as a result of the movement restriction, questioning the need for the measure if, in its view, there was no genuine contest.
The party also accused the state government of what it described as irresponsible use of taxpayers’ money and executive power in allegedly imposing candidates on the 17 local government areas.
The ADC said its 2027 governorship candidate, Ocho Obodoeze, would promote competitive elections and greater grassroots participation if elected.
According to the party, an ADC administration would also prioritise road construction across the three senatorial districts, prompt payment of workers’ and teachers’ salaries, as well as pensioners’ gratuities and monthly pensions.
The party further pledged to protect freedom of movement and residents’ right to conduct their businesses, while criticising the APC-led administration over what it described as worsening hunger and hardship in the state.
The claims are the ADC’s allegations; several political parties, including the APC, had participated in preparations for the September 26 poll and seven parties signed a peace accord ahead of the election.
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