The Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC) has issued Certificate of Return to Princess Miriam Onuoha (APC), winner of the Okigwe North Federal Constituency rerun election in Imo.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the certificate was presented by INEC National Commissioner, Prof. Okechukwu Ibeanu at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
Speaking to newsmen after the ceremony, Onuoha dedicated her election to the people of her constituency and God Almighty, who made it possible.
She, however, said that she received the certificate with mixed feelings because of the killing that happened shortly after she was declared winner in the election judged to be free and fair, following techniques deployed by INEC to prevent rigging and violence.
“This election was a test run and it became a testament to the fact that when there is a will to execute a properly planned election, it is possible.
“It is a bitter tastes that after this wholesome and landslide victory, one of my strongest supporters was killed. What is topmost on my mind right now is the feeling of pain that I cannot explain,” she said.
Describing the incident as a wake-up call to everybody, especially VIPs attached with armed security personnel, to be mindful of the actions and activities of their attached security details to make sure that they play by the rules of engagement.
She added that ”there should be no indiscriminate or sporadic shooting, even in places of gathering, there are laid down strategies to control crowd.
”You have tear gas, pepper spray, stun gun. I think the use of gun is like the last resort. So that the lives of the people we are meant to protect are not put into danger,” she said.
“We are going to experience robust engagement with critical stakeholders that will usher in the best time for us in terms of developments, quality bills, participation in the house.
” Proper representation that will usher in inclusive governance ranging from participatory constituency projects in accordance with the earnings and aspirations of my people,” she added.
