The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has charged newly elected lawmakers to uphold fairness, accountability and dedication in serving their constituents as it presented Certificates of Return to winners of Saturday’s bye-elections across the country.
At the presentation ceremony held on Tuesday at the Commission’s national headquarters in Abuja, INEC Chairman, represented by National Commissioner May Agbamuche-Mbu, congratulated the successful candidates and reminded them of the trust placed in them by voters.
Agbamuche-Mbu said the issuance of the certificates marked the formal completion of the electoral process and the beginning of the elected officials’ responsibility to represent and serve the people.
“Today, I will be issuing your Certificates of Return, and we pray that you represent your people fairly. That is what matters most to us,” she said.
Among those honoured at the ceremony were Prof. Francis Dayo Faduyile, winner of the Ondo South Senatorial District election, who was absent from the event, as well as Olaka Nwogu Johnson, who won the Rivers South-East Senatorial District election, and Rabiu Shuaibu, elected to represent the Dawakin Kudu/Warawa Federal Constituency in Kano State.
The National Commissioner also announced that Certificates of Return would be issued in Kebbi State for the Zuru State Constituency election and in Ekiti State for the governorship election, both conducted on June 20, 2026.
She urged the lawmakers-elect to justify the confidence of their constituents through effective representation, commitment to democratic values and service to the people.
Agbamuche-Mbu further appreciated the candidates, political parties, stakeholders and supporters for their participation in the electoral process, while wishing the winners success in their new responsibilities.
The ceremony was attended by elected representatives, political party officials and other electoral stakeholders, reflecting INEC’s commitment to a smooth transition from elections to effective representation.