The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Saturday explained that Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidates in the 2019 general elections in Zamfara State will get their Certificates of Return next week.
At a press conference in Abuja on Saturday, INEC chairman, Yakubu Mahmood, who declared PDP candidate, Bello Matawalle, winner of Zamfara State governorship election, said he and his deputy will get their certificates on Monday, May 27 in Abuja.
However, others will get their at the INEC office in Zamfara on Friday, May 31.
Mahmood also recalled how the All Progressives Congress (APC) disobeyed electoral rules, which eventually caused its loss at the court.
In his address at the INEC office, Mahmood explained: “It is important to provide a background about what led to the Supreme Court ruling.
“Among other activities, INEC asked parties to conduct their primaries within August 18 and November 7 2018. Unfortunately, the APC in Zamfara didn’t conduct its primary within the period.
“The APC approached the court and the commission was asked to include it’s candidates to contest in the 2019 election.
“However, the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court have decided that the APC did not conduct valid primaries.
“On May 24, the Supreme Court rules that the APC votes were wasted and that the runners up be declared winner
“Following the judgement, the commission has held two emergency meetings, which included its lawyer and staff.
“In compliance with the Supreme Court judgement, the commission hereby declares Bello Matawalle of the PDP, winner of the governorship election.”
The INEC chairman further listed other winners and their parties including the deputy governor elect, Senator and House of Representatives members elect as well as State Assembly members-elect.
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