Following the death of the Abia PDP gubernatorial candidate Prof. Eleazar Uche Ikonne on January 25, 2022 and the subsequent directive by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a fresh primary within 14 days to replace him, members of the Abia PDP State caucus have zoned the vacant gubernatorial seat to Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area, home LGA of the late Prof. Uche Ikonne.
The decision was taken after a meeting of Abia PDP state caucus whose membership is drawn from across the state including Abia North, Ikwuano/Umuahia, Ukwa East and Ukwa West Local Government areas.
Among those present at the meeting were Governor Okezie Victor Ikpeazu; former governor of Abia State, Theodore A. Orji; Speaker of Abia State House of Assembly, Chinedum Orji and the other two senatorial candidates of the PDP, namely Mao Ohuabunwa and Austin Akobundu, respectively.
Also present at the meeting were the statutory members of the Abia PDP State caucus, except one who sent in an apology for his absence.
A statement by Abia PDP Vice Chairman/Acting State Publicity Secretary, Abraham Amah said: “The party urges members to support the decision of the party caucus and work towards a successful primary election coming up on February 4, 2023. The party also calls on members to remain vigilant and expect more information and briefings from the publicity department of the Abia PDP in due course.”