Rhe Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced Professor Anthony Ani of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the victor in the Ebonyi South Senatorial District bye-election held on Saturday.
The declaration was made early Sunday by the Returning Officer, Uchechukwu Eze, in Afikpo North Local Government Area, the district’s headquarters.
With an impressive 46,270 votes, Professor Ani emerged as the Senator-elect, outpacing his opponents. Linus Okorie of the Labour Party secured 2,710 votes, Ifeanyi Eleje of All Grand Progressive Congress (APGA) garnered 3,513 votes, and Silas Onu of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) received 2,783 votes.
This victory positions Professor Ani to succeed Senator Dave Umahi in representing Ebonyi South at the National Assembly’s Red Chamber. Umahi vacated the seat following his appointment as the Minister of Works by President Bola Tinubu, leading to the need for this bye-election. Professor Ani’s win underscores the APC’s success in the electoral contest and marks a significant political development in Ebonyi South.