The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has formally presented Certificates of Return to candidates who emerged victorious in the recent by-elections, officially confirming them as elected representatives across six states.
The presentation ceremony followed the by-elections conducted on 20 June, covering four senatorial districts—Enugu, Nasarawa North, Ondo South and Rivers South-East—as well as the Dawakin Kudu/Warawa Federal Constituency in Kano State and the Zuru State Constituency in Kebbi State.
Representing INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan, Supervising National Commissioner May Agbamuche-Mbu congratulated the winners and urged them to place the interests of their constituents above all else.
“The greatest responsibility before you is to serve the people faithfully and provide quality representation,” she said, emphasising the need for accountability and dedication in public office.
Agbamuche-Mbu also disclosed that the commission would present the Certificate of Return to the governor-elect of Ekiti State at the INEC office in Ado-Ekiti, while the winner of the Zuru State Constituency election would receive the document in Birnin Kebbi.
During the ceremony, National Commissioners overseeing the respective geopolitical zones took turns presenting the certificates, marking the official conclusion of the electoral process for the successful candidates and paving the way for them to assume their legislative responsibilities.
The presentation of the certificates represents the final constitutional step in validating the electoral victories, with the newly elected officials expected to begin preparations for their roles as representatives of their various constituencies.
