The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC has presented certificates of return to Abia State Governor Elect, Dr Alex Chioma Otti and his deputy, Engineer Ikechukwu Emetu.
Presenting the certificates at INEC’s headquarters Umuahia, INEC chairman represented by the commission’s national commissioner in charge of Benue, Abia and Anambra states, Barrister Festus Okoye said under the provision of section 72 sub section 1 of the electoral act, mandated them to give a sealed certificates of return to the governor elect and his deputy within a period of fourteen days after a return has been made.
Okoye who is the INEC commissioner in charge of voter education and publicity told Otti that Abians expect much from him and encouraged stakeholders to help in the growth of democracy in Nigeria.
Responding, the Abia State Governor Elect, Dr Alex Otti promised that the mandate and trust given to him will not be for granted and commended other governorship candidates who had congratulated him, while some have indicated interest to support him succeed in office.
While acknowledging the recognition of the outgoing Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu who advised other governorship candidates not to distract him with litigations, Otti called on all to join him in rebuilding Abia state.
Otti who promised Ikpeazu that his administration will not be vindictive, urged anyone with government property or funds to return them.
According to him, Abians will not be in penury while those who had served the government in one way or the other will be flexing government funds.
