The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ebonyi State has knocked out Austin Umahi, the younger brother of the former governor, from contesting for the seat of the senator representing Ebonyi South Senatorial District.
A statement signed by Ebonyi APC Chairman, Chief Stanley Okoro-Emegha, alongside other State Working Committee (SWC) members, revealed the zoning of the Senatorial district ticket to Onicha Local Government Area.
The party said the zoning decision was driven by the party’s vision of fairness and equality in the distribution of political positions within the district.
According to the statement, Ohaozara LGA, the Umahi brothers’ hometown, already boasts a Ministerial seat, an INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner, and a Senior Special Assistant to the President.
Part of the statement read: “Nature abhors a vacuum, hence the need to fill the vacant position of the district.
“The APC Leader in Ebonyi, Gov. Francis Nwifuru, has exemplified leadership embodied in equity and justice, and such was worthy of emulation.
“Afikpo North LGA produced the Deputy Governor and a House of Representatives member, while Edda LGA produced the state party chairman.
“Ivo LGA has a House of Representatives member, Ohaozara LGA has a Minister, INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner and a Senior Special Assistant to the President.
“Onicha LGA has none, and in the spirit of equity and justice as propagated by the party’s leader, the vacant seat should be zoned to it.”