——Present Certificate of Return to Governor-Elect Ododo
The National Commissioner, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in charge of Kogi, Kwara and Niger States Mohammed Kudu Haruna on Friday described the off-cycle governorship election in Kogi state conducted by the Commission as one of the most freest, transparent, credible and verifiable in the history of Kogi state.
Haruna stated this at the state headquarters of the INEC in Lokoja while presenting Certificate of Return to the winner of the last Saturday governorship election in Kogi state, Alhaji Usman Ahmed Ododo and his deputy Joel Salifu Oyibo.
He said they were convinced that the commission has conducted a free, fair and credible election in Kogi through adherence to the commission’s laid down procedures and guidelines for the conduct of elections in Nigeria.
“We have delivered to the people one of the freest elections and we have done our best with fear of God. It is obvious that it is God Almighty that gives power to whoever he likes and in any election it is only one contestant that wins” he stated.
Speaking shortly after receiving his certificate, the Governor-Elect assured the people that he would make good his campaign promise to build on the sterling achievements of Governor Yahaya Bello, while preserving the unity of the state.
He expressed appreciation to the people of the State for the overwhelming support he enjoyed at the polls, describing it as a consolidation on the strength and unity of the Kogi State.
While promising to justify the confidence reposed in him, Ododo said, “My administration will be committed to sustaining the youth and women empowerment programs of the present administration. My resolve to provide employment for our teeming youths and ensure that education occupies the front burner of our administration remains unchanged.
“My victory at last Saturday’s election is a victory for all. We will run an all inclusive administration, where everyone, irrespective of tribe, religion and political affiliation, will be carried along.”
The presentation of the certificates of return was witnessed by Governor Yahaya Bello, who urged the people of the State to join hands with Ododo in building a greater Kogi State.
”The election has come and gone and a winner has emerged. I call on the people of the State to work towards the unity and togetherness our administration has achieved,” he said.
