The Independent National Electoral Commission, on Wednesday, issued Certificate of Return to the Governor-elect of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti and his Deputy, Mr. Agwu.
This is coming 11 days after his declaration as the winner of the March 18 governorship election in the state by the nation’s electoral umpire.
The National Commissioner of INEC, Festus Okoye, while issuing the certificate to the Otti and Agwu, at the INEC state headquarters in Umuahia, the Abia state capital, noted that the conduct of a good, verifiable and an election that meets both national and international standard is multi-faceted as no single institution does it alone as it is expedient to the democratic development of a society.
He noted that democracy is grown and nurtured to advance the society, while commending Abians for standing, believing and protecting the democratic institution.
He also commended the media for their roles in achieving a credible polls.
Reacting, Otti described the presentation as the final process of the journey with INEC, following his declaration as the winner of the elections.
He commended the electoral body for a job well done.
While appreciating the incumbent governor, Okezie Ikpeazu, for his magnanimity asking for no litigations, Otti extended an olive branch to those who contested the elections to come and work with him to development the state.
He, however, urged those who looted funds or in charge of any government property to return such with immediate effect as Abia would not be used as a collateral.
Source: The Punch
