The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued certificate of return to the incumbent Governor of Plateau State, Simon Lalong who was reelected and the twenty four State House of Assembly members also elected recently.
The Commission encouraged the governor-elect to deliver more material benefits to the citizenry in order to meet their governance aspirations.
The electoral umpire also advised disgruntled persons to seek judicial remedy where they believe they have genuine cases to pursue.
The INEC National Commissioner supervising Abuja, Niger, Kaduna and Plateau States, Prof. Antonia Okoosi-Simbine, stated this on the occasion of issuance of certificates of return to the governor-elect and state assembly members in Plateau State, held at the INEC headquarters in Jos.
Okoosi-Simbine said, “Unfortunately, the 2019 elections marked a new trend in which some parties and candidates engaged in violent behaviour, including manhandling election duty officials and intimidation of voters, collation and returning officers. Thankfully, this was not the case here on the Plateau.
“The Commission views this trend with grave concerns and will continue to work on greater voter enlightenment for mandate protection as well as with the security agencies to curtail this ugly trend.
“While doing this, the Commission advises disgruntled persons and parties to feel free to seek judicial remedy where they have genuine case(s) to pursue.”
She congratulated the governor and the incoming state assembly members for their victories at the polls.
According to the INEC National Commissioner, “I believe that your victory at both the initial and supplementary elections, both culminating in your reelection is a referendum in which the people of Plateau State have passed a vote of confidence.
“I encourage you to deliver more material benefits to your people in order to meet their governance aspirations.
“On this note, let me conclude that as our democracy improves including the reform of rules of the game and the regulations and guidelines of the Commission, we at INEC will continue to serve you by ensuring that only those who truly win the hearts of the majority of the electorate are returned elected,” she stressed.
In his remarks, Governor Lalong said, “Fellow citizens, now that politicking, campaigns and elections are over, let me assure you that our resolve to build on our past achievements of peaceful co-existence is non-negotiable.
“To achieve these ideals, we shall continue to strengthen both institutional and legal framework; just as we will reward loyalty, excellence and hard work in the public and private sectors.
“We are conscious of the beauty of history that requires us to leave behind a lasting legacy that others will build on.
“All hands must be on deck in the next four years, so that together we will do more,” the re-elected governor assured.
Lalong was issued his certificate of return by the INEC National Commissioner, while those of the State Assembly members elected were issued to them by the Resident Electoral Commissioner in the State, Mallam Halilu Pai.
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