Gov. Akpabio receives Certificate of Return
Akwa Ibom Governor, Chief Godswill O. Akpabio has been presented with a Certificate of Return Tuesday by Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) with a promise to make security of lives and property his priority.
The Certificate of Return which was presented by Barrister (Mrs.) Thelma Iremire, the Federal Commissioner, INEC in-charge of Akwa Ibom, Cross River and Rivers States to Chief Akpabio on behalf of INEC Chairman, Professor Attahiru Jega has put to rest the rumour making the rounds that the Governor who was re-elected was not going to be presented with the certificate by INEC.
Speaking at the presentation ceremony at the state INEC head- quarters in Uyo, Professor Jega congratulated Governor Akpabio and other members-elect in the State House of Assembly who also received their certificate of return on their victory at the just- concluded 2011 general elections.
Professor Jega charged all those who won the elections not to see their successes as a personal victory but a triumph for the democratic process and a call to duty.
The INEC Chairman said “holding political office is essentially about rendering services. There are expectations from not only those who voted you into office but also from all Nigerians. I pray that God will give you the wisdom and courage to take the right decision that would better the lives of our people and consequently our nation”.
“The elections have come and gone. It is now time for you to re-dedicate yourselves to the task ahead- that is bringing succor and prosperity to our people. The challenges ahead are enormous and I have no doubt that you will live to expectation. It is important to note that development can only thrive in a stable environment. I therefore come with a message of peace and stability. You should be ournbrothers' keeper”, he advised.
The state Governor Chief Godswill thanked INEC for doing a fantastic job by answering the question, Will the ballot papers get to the ground and will there be security in Akwa Ibom state?
He dedicated the certificate of Return to the good people of Akwa Ibom state and to God Almighty saying “The result of the election reflected the will of the people”.
Governor Akpabio pledge to work hard to ensure security of lives and property in the state ans called for co-operation and understanding from the people adding that “We are building a state for all, there should not be discrimination of people. Go to Epe in and Ipaja in Lagos state, they are developed by non indigenes. Welcome visitor otherwise you will not see progress in Akwa Ibom state.
Earlier, the Resident Electoral Commissioner for INEC in Akwa Ibom state Mrs. Maria Owi had said the commission did what was expected by answering two thorny questions- Are you sure we will see ballot papers in Akwa Ibom and what assurance are you giving to us on security?