The Akwa Ibom State governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel, his deputy, Mr Moses Ekpo, alongside 25 State House of Assembly members-elect on Thursday received their certificate of return from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Uyo.
But the member to represent Essien Udim Local, Hon. Nse Ntuen, who won under the platform of the All Progressives Congress, was not issued his certificate of return because, according to the REC, Mike Igini, results from the area were marred with irregularities and declared under duress.
Speaking shortly after receiving his certificate, the Governor-elect, who spoke on behalf of other recipients, commended the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mike Igini, INEC staff and adhoc staff and the security agencies for their effort in ensuring credible and peaceful elections.
He also commended 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 will work hard to ensure that the people were not disappointed for voting them.
Emmanuel 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.
His words, “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 loss 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 per cent.
“The election under the INEC REC, Barr Mike Igini was the best and one of the credible elections in Akwa Ibom state. The whole world knows who he is but the only regret is that most of those who know him have stood to demonize him. I think he is one of the best in the country.
“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.”
While responding to reasons why no certificate of return was issued to Essien Udim local government area, 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.
He said, “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.”