Ododo, Diri get certificates of return

The Independent National Electoral Commission has presented certificates of return to the Kogi State governor-elect, Ahmed Ododo and his deputy, Joel Oyibo.

INEC also presented a certificate of return to the Bayelsa State Governor and candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Douye Diri, who won the November 11 governorship election in the state.

At the presentation of certificates of return to Ododo and Oyibo in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital, the governor-elect (Ododo) said he would not disappoint the people of the state who reposed tremendous confidence in him by voting massively for him.

He expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima for creating an enabling environment for a free and fair election, which he added, reflected the wishes of the people.

He vowed to continue with the legacy of the incumbent, Alhaji Yayaha Bello, and improve on his achievements.

Also, Governor Bello called on all those who participated in the election to learn lessons from how the poll was conducted and its outcome.

“The journey of eight years has come to an end. I want to appreciate every Kogite that has stood by us on this journey. I also want to appreciate the President and Vice for creating an enabling environment for peaceful, free, fair and credible election devoid of any crisis,” the governor said.

Meanwhile, handing over his certificate of return to Diri, the INEC National Commissioner supervising Akwa Ibom, Rivers and Bayelsa, May Agbamuche-Mbu, said by presenting the certificates of return, the commission was fulfilling a statutory provision outlined in section 72(1) of the Electoral Act 2022.

She said the section also stated that the presentation must be done within 14 days following the declaration of a winner.

Speaking after receiving his certificate, the Bayelsa State governor said the event had put to rest the speculation that INEC would not present the certificate to him, even as he commended the commission for its professionalism and impartiality during and after the election.