By Gloria Drealomalicha
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has emerged victorious in the Abia presidential election primary after defeating former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi in a keenly contested exercise that drew significant political attention.
Results released at the end of the primary showed that Atiku secured a total of 25,153 votes, comfortably ahead of Amaechi, who polled 18,339 votes to finish second.
The outcome further reinforces Atiku’s enduring influence within the political landscape, particularly among party faithful in Abia State, where delegates turned out in large numbers to participate in the exercise.
Despite mounting pressure from other contenders and growing calls for a new generation of leadership, the former vice president demonstrated strong grassroots support, with many delegates reportedly citing his political experience, national reach and long-standing presence in Nigerian politics as major factors behind their decision.
Amaechi, a former Minister of Transportation and one of the prominent figures in the race, also put up a strong fight during the primary. His 18,339 votes reflected a solid support base and highlighted the intense competition that characterised the exercise.
Observers at the venue described the atmosphere as energetic but orderly, with supporters of both camps cheering passionately as the results were announced. While jubilation erupted among Atiku’s loyalists after the declaration, Amaechi’s supporters were said to have remained calm, expressing hope for future political opportunities.
Meanwhile, businessman and economist Mohammed Hayatu-deen finished third in the contest after polling 3,264 votes.
Although trailing behind the two leading contenders, Hayatu-deen’s participation added depth to the race and reflected the diversity of interests within the party ahead of the crucial national political season.
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