Gov. Alex Otti of Abia has expressed satisfaction over the smooth electoral process in Saturday’s local government elections in the state.

Mr Otti spoke in an interview with journalists after casting his vote at about 12:19 p.m. at Ahiafor Umuru-Umuehim Nvosi Polling Unit 017 in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.

He also expressed satisfaction with the voter turnout and orderly conduct of the exercise.

The governor was accompanied to the polling unit by his wife, Priscilla, who also voted in the same unit.

He said that, aside from minor disruptions in Obingwa and Ohafia LGAs, the process was largely peaceful, with security agencies deployed to maintain order where needed.

He encouraged the electorate to vote for credible candidates, who could deliver their campaign promises.

He also reiterated the importance of choosing leaders based on competence rather than political affiliation.

Mr Otti said that council elections were particularly significant because they impact rural communities directly, allowing residents to elect candidates they know and trust.

“The point remains that political parties are platforms for running elections and like you would notice, a lot of political parties have problems but irrespective of that, we have advocated that people should vote candidates that are credible and competent to deliver.

“If you want to continue to enjoy the dividends of democracy, if you want to continue to enjoy performance then, you need to vote for people like that.

“I believe that this election would synchronise with that call I’ve been making because people have also been talking about it, that they are going to vote for people who have capacity.

“And it’s a local government election. We all know our people,” Mr Otti said.

He further expressed the hope that the elections would reflect the people’s desire for capable leadership and reinforce the delivery of democratic dividends at the grassroots level.

The elections, which suffered initial hiccups over the late arrival of materials and officials, later gathered momentum.

 (NAN)