Chijioke Onyeneke has emerged as the House of Representatives candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress for Owerri federal constituency in Imo.

Mr Onyeneke won the party’s primary election with 111 votes, defeating his closest rival, Philip Ejiogu, who polled 11 votes.

The result was announced by the Owerri West LGA chairman of the party, Okey Oparaugo, in the presence of committee members and representatives of the Independent National Electoral Commission.

Mr Oparaugo said the exercise was conducted in line with the party’s guidelines and electoral procedures, adding that Mr Onyeneke met all constitutional and party requirements to emerge as the party’s House of Representatives candidate.

He said the outcome followed consultations and directives issued by the party leadership on the conduct of the primary election in Imo.

Reacting to his victory, Mr Onyeneke in a statement on Friday said the outcome reflected the confidence reposed in him by party members and pledged to strengthen the NDC within the constituency.

He said his emergence represented a collective victory for party members and residents seeking a new direction for Imo.

The candidate thanked the party leadership and delegates for their support, stressing that the contest was peaceful and should be seen as a shared effort to reposition the state for sustainable development.

According to him, the task ahead requires unity, inclusiveness and collective responsibility to build a secure, functional and economically viable society for all residents.

Mr Onyeneke said his campaign would focus on issues and practical solutions rather than personal attacks or divisive politics.

He added that priority attention would be given to security, quality education, youth empowerment, job creation, healthcare delivery and economic growth aimed at restoring the pride and dignity of Imo.

(NAN)