From Atiku Sarki, Abuja
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has presented Certificates of Return to winners of the bye-elections conducted on Saturday, June 20, 2026, across the country, marking the official completion of the electoral process.
The certificates were presented on Tuesday at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja, where the INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, represented by National Commissioner May Agbamuche-Mbu, expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the elections, describing them as free, fair, credible and peaceful.
While congratulating the newly elected lawmakers, Agbamuche-Mbu reminded them of the confidence placed in them by their constituents and urged them to uphold fairness, accountability and commitment in discharging their responsibilities.
She said the issuance of the certificates signified not only the end of the electoral process but also the beginning of the elected officials’ duty to represent and serve the people effectively.
“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; Olaka Nwogu Johnson, elected for the Rivers South-East Senatorial District; and Rabiu Shuaibu, who won the Dawakin Kudu/Warawa Federal Constituency seat in Kano State.
The National Commissioner also disclosed that Certificates of Return would be presented 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 trust of their constituents through quality representation, respect for democratic values and dedication to public service.
Agbamuce-Mbu also commended the candidates, political parties, stakeholders and voters for their participation in the electoral process, wishing the winners success as they begin their new responsibilities.
The ceremony was attended by elected representatives, political party officials and other stakeholders, underscoring INEC’s commitment to ensuring a smooth transition from elections to effective governance.