BY SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT
.
There was widespread jubilation and celebration across Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State as Rt. Hon. Aniede Francis, popularly known as Odigene, emerged victorious in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) primary election for the Nkanu West State House of Assembly seat.
.
The primary election, which was peacefully and successfully conducted at Nkwo Nnajiani Square, Akpugo, witnessed massive participation by party delegates, stakeholders, supporters, and observers in what many described as one of the smoothest and most transparent primaries held in the area in recent times.
.
Rt. Hon. Aniede Francis secured a resounding landslide victory after polling an overwhelming 1,139 votes to defeat his opponent, Barr. Anthony Ekene Okenwa, who garnered 6 votes.
.
The results were officially announced by the PDP Returning Officer for the Nkanu West House of Assembly primary election, Hon. John Nnam, under the supervision of officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), who monitored the exercise.
.
The atmosphere at the venue remained calm, orderly, and highly organized throughout the exercise, as delegates conducted themselves peacefully while party officials ensured strict adherence to electoral guidelines and procedures.
.
Moments after the official declaration of results, supporters of Rt. Hon. Aniede Francis erupted in celebration, chanting solidarity songs and praising what they described as a victory for the grassroots. Many party faithful noted that the outcome reflected his widespread acceptance, leadership capacity, political experience, and longstanding contributions toward the development of Nkanu West.
.
Stakeholders and party members who spoke after the exercise commended the PDP leadership for organizing a credible, transparent, and hitch-free primary election, stressing that the successful conduct of the exercise further strengthened confidence in the party ahead of the forthcoming general elections.
.
Speaking shortly after his emergence, Rt. Hon. Aniede Francis expressed profound gratitude to delegates, party leaders, and supporters for the confidence reposed in him. He assured the people of Nkanu West that he would justify the mandate through quality representation, inclusive leadership, people-oriented policies, and unwavering dedication to the welfare and progress of the constituency.
.
The successful conduct of the primary election has continued to generate positive reactions across the council area, with many residents expressing optimism that the PDP remains united, focused, and fully prepared for victory in the next election cycle.
