INEC Presents Certificates of Return to Re-elected Anambra Governor Charles Soludo
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has formally presented certificates of return to Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo and his deputy, Onyekachukwu Ibezim, cementing their electoral victory.
The ceremony, held at the INEC headquarters in Awka on Tuesday, came just two days after the governorship election. National Commissioner in charge of Anambra State, Kenneth Ukeagu, officiated the presentation, marking a swift transition following the poll.
A Governor’s Gratitude and a Call for Unity
Upon receiving the certificate, Governor Soludo expressed his appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, whom he described as “a democrat” for fostering “an equal playing field” during the election. He also reserved significant praise for the electoral body itself.
“INEC allowed the votes to count, and I commend the new leadership for their role in this electoral process,” Soludo stated. He emphasized that the commission’s conduct had shown there is still hope for Nigeria’s democratic institutions. “The technology worked superlatively. INEC deserves better credit for its efforts in ensuring a transparent election.”
Turning his attention to the electorate, the governor said, “Thank you, ndị Anambra, for your trust and confidence. Anambra is on the rise.” In a move to foster post-election cohesion, he extended an olive branch to his political opponents, inviting them to join hands with his administration in building the state.
INEC and Security Agencies Receive Commendation
For his part, National Commissioner Kenneth Ukeagu lauded the security agencies for their “vigilance and professionalism” during the election. He also commended the conduct of Anambra voters and the maturity displayed by the political parties involved.
“The people of Anambra State have once again shown that elections can be keenly contested, yet peacefully conducted,” Mr. Ukeagu observed.
He clarified that the presentation of the certificates was in strict compliance with the Electoral Act 2022, which mandates INEC to issue the documents to elected officials within 14 days after an election.
Solidifying an Electoral Mandate
Governor Soludo’s re-election was declared on Sunday by the INEC Returning Officer, Edoba Omoregie. The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) candidate secured a decisive victory with 422,664 votes.
His closest rival, Nicholas Ukachukwu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), polled 99,445 votes. The candidate for the Young Progressives Party (YPP), Paul Chukwuma, came in third with 37,753 votes, while George Moghalu of the Labour Party secured fourth place with 10,576 votes.
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