Ahmed Ododo, the next governor of Kogi State, and Joel Oyibo, his deputy, have received certificates of return from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The governor-elect, Ododo, declared he would not let the state’s voters, who had cast a landslide vote for him down, he said this while receiving the certificates of return in Lokoja, the capital of Kogi State.
He thanked Vice President Kashim Shettima and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for fostering an atmosphere that allowed for a free and fair election that, he added represented the will of the people.
He promised to build on the accomplishments of the outgoing Alhaji Yayaha Bello and carry on his legacy.
Governor Bello also urged everyone who took part in the poll to learn lessons from the way it was carried out and the results.
“The eight-year adventure has reached its conclusion. I would want to thank each and every Kogite who has supported us along the way.”’ The governor also expressed gratitude to the President and Vice President for fostering an atmosphere that allowed for a free, fair, credible, and peaceful election that was free from any crises.
As for May Agbamuche-Mbu, the INEC National Commissioner overseeing Akwa Ibom, Rivers, and Bayelsa, he gave his certificate of return to Diri and stated that the commission was carrying out a statutory requirement stated in section 72(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 by presenting the certificates of return.
The commissioner added that the provision also specified that the presentation has to be completed within 14 days of the winner being announced.
