Obiano Receives Certificate of Return

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka
Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, who was announced winner of the state’s governorship election last Saturday has been issued a Certificate of Return by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

His Deputy, Dr. Nkem Okeke, and Mrs. Nkoli Mmegbuanaeze of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) who was also elected on Saturday into the House of Assembly to represent Idemili North state constituency as a replacement for her late husband, Hon Francis Mmegbuanaeze, also received their Certificates of Return.

An obviously excited Obiano, in his address, assured the people of Anambra State that he and his deputy were poised to work for the state, more than what was experienced in their first four years.
The governor said he would ensure massive development in all areas of the state so that by the time he would have completed his eight year term, the state would wear an entirely different look.

Obiano, who spoke after receiving the certificate, said: “I am happy to have picked my Certificate of Return, which confers on me the assignment of governing the state for another four years. I thank God who performed the miracle that made my 21 over 21 victory possible.
“I also thank President Muhammadu Buhari for sticking to his promise that the election would be free and fair. This is the beginning of the huge impact our party, APGA, would make in Nigeria. We are going to rise and present governorship candidates in other states.

“I assure you that Anambra State would continue to shine. God has been with us and will continue to be with us. I will work harder in my second term than I did in the first. We will ensure we leave a legacy in the state.
“Finally, I call on other candidates to join hands with me let us move the state forward. Anambra State is bigger than our individual interests, so this is the time to work for the state interest.”

INEC National Commissioner, May Agbamuche, who presented the certificate to Obiano at about 1:30a.m., said: “I hereby certify that Willie Obiano of APGA has been elected into the office of the governor of Anambra State.”
Earlier, INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Dr. Nkwachukwu Orji, said the certificates symbolise the mandate received by the elected officials, stressing that it was not an end, but a means to an end.

“The end here is the development of the society and the people. Your election is not a reward but a responsibility. Responsibility for the people, to improve them and develop the society and the way it is discharged will determine how the people will vote in future elections.”

Meanwhile, members of APGA yesterday engaged in elaborate celebration of the victory of their candidate, Obiano.
The celebration which began at the INEC office where the candidate picked his Certificate of Return witnessed streets shows as long motorcade of party vehicles and those of top government functionaries, including the governor, rode through the capital city to the governor’s lodge, Amawbia.

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