Abuja: The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has presented a Certificate of Return to Prof. Chukwuma Soludo following his re-election as governor in the November 8 Anambra Governorship Election. The certificate was handed over by Mr. Kenneth Ikeagu, the INEC Supervising National Electoral Commissioner for the election, at the commission’s office in Awka.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ikeagu stated that the presentation of the certificate was in compliance with Section 72(1) of the Electoral Act, 2022. He explained that the section mandates INEC to issue a certificate of return within 14 days to every candidate duly returned by the returning officer. In his address, Ikeagu expressed the honor and privilege he felt in presenting the certificates of return to both the governor-elect and the deputy governor-elect.
Prof. Soludo, in his response, assured the people of Anambra that he would not disappoint them after they entrusted him with their mandate. He highlighted the uniqueness of the election, noting that he was elected with 73 percent of the total valid votes cast, marking a historic moment for Anambra. Soludo also extended his gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, security agencies, and INEC for ensuring a level-playing field during the election.
Soludo expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for his firm stance in ensuring the will of the people prevailed. He commended INEC for conducting a transparent election that restored confidence in the electoral process. The governor also praised the new INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, for the successful implementation of technology during the election. Soludo emphasized that the Anambra election has renewed hope for the country.
The governor called on Nigerians to support INEC in its efforts to strengthen the electoral process. He also reached out to his opponents, urging them to work collaboratively for the progress of Anambra State. Soludo stressed the importance of unity and service, stating that it is time to come together for the continuous development of Anambra.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Soludo, representing the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), secured victory in the election with 422,664 votes. His closest competitor, Mr. Nicholas Ukachukwu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), received 99,445 votes, finishing in a distant second place.