The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Akwa Ibom State has presented the Certificate of Return to Governor Udom Emmanuel and 25 members of the state house of assembly.
Moses Ekpo, the deputy governor was also presented with his certificate of return.
Akwa Ibom State governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel and his deputy, Mr Moses Ekpo alongside 25 State House of Assembly members elect have received their certificate of return from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Governor Emmanuel who spoke on behalf of other recipients in Uyo commended the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mike Igini, INEC staff and the security agencies for their effort to ensure credible and peaceful elections.
Udom who described the just concluded elections as one of the most peaceful lauded the people of the State for their love and for re-electing him for another term and pledged his loyalty and that of the elected officials to the people, adding that they would not rest but work hard to ensure that the people were not disappointed for voting them into office.
He said he and the elected officials have only one project, which is Akwa Ibom state and the people have risen in togetherness to choose their leader, saying he rededicates the victory to God and the people of the state.
“I know a lot of people were scared of the kind of election to hold in Akwa Ibom state. Election has come and gone and we didn’t lose any INEC staff or corps member.
“I think elections in Akwa Ibom State was one of the most peaceful though there were pockets of problems. If you allow me to score the credibility of the election, I will put it at 90 percent.
“I want to pledge on behalf of all of us that this is a call to duty. This is not the time of self aggrandizement or to go and sleep or rest but for God to be glorified,” he stated.
While responding to reasons why no certificate of return was issued to the representative of Essien Udim state constituency, the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mike Igini, said reports from collation officers sent to the area stated that election results were signed under duress.
He said as such, the commission at the national level would handle the issue of the council area, adding that he has executed his job of carrying out elections in the state.
“As an umpire, we have been given the opportunity to serve the people and our fatherland in the just concluded general election, and that we have done”.
Elections were cancelled in many wards in Essien Udim local government area due to alleged malpractice and irregularities.
The presentation of certificates of return to the elected members marked the end of the 2019 general elections in Akwa Ibom State.
