By Sixtus Uket (Calabar)
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Cross River State has presented Certificates of Return to the State Governor-elect, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, his Deputy-elect, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey and all the elected 25 members of the State House of Assembly.
Presenting the Certificates to Otu and the others, Friday at the Mike Igini Hall, INEC State Headquarters, Calabar, the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Prof. Gabriel Yomere said it marked the end of this year’s election process in Cross River State.
Prof. Yomere explained that the issuance of the Certificates of Return to winners of the elections conducted in the State on March 18, was in line with Section 72 (1) of the Electoral Act 2022 (as amended) which empowers INEC to issue Certificates of Return to dully elected members within 14 days.
He thanked all the people for the support that led to the success of the elections in the State.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner advised the Governor-elect and members of the State House of Assembly to be magnanimous in victory, stressing that, their victory is a call to service.
Receiving his Certificate, Senator Otu promised an all inclusive government and assured that his government would empower women and youths.
Senator Otu also stated that his administration would create an enabling environment for youths in the State to develop their potentials while women would be fully equipped with skills.
The event was witnessed by senior government officials in the State, stalwarts of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Chairmen of the 18 Local Government Areas of the State.
The ceremony was later turned into a mini carnival-like celebration causing traffic gridlock on the Murtala Muhammed Highway, Calabar before terminating at U. J. Esuene Stadium, where the Governor-elect and Deputy Governor-elect, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey were hosted amidst traditional dances and cultural display.
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the State won 19 seats while the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) had five members and Labour Party (LP) won one seat.
