…INEC Pays Tribute to late Lawmaker- elect, Ezekiel Afon
Yakubu Busari, Jos
Lalong displaying his Certificate of Return, with wife.
Re-elected Governor Simon Lalong of Plateua State has stated that he is expecting his major rival in the governorship election in the state and governorship candidate of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Senator Jeremiah Useni to congratulate him just as he has promised to run an all inconclusive government that can accommodate the opposition PDP.
The governor expressed the concern and made the pledge after receiving the Certificate of Return from Prof Antonia Okoosi-Simbine, Prof Antonia Okoosi-Simbine, National Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, in Jos.
Speaking with journalists at the INEC headquarters in Jos , Lalong said: “I have received many congratulatory messages from my victory but only waiting for Sen Jeremiah Timbut Useni to congratulate me on the landslide victory .
Lalong, thanked Plateau electorates for giving him a second term to serve the state as governor and assured that his administration would consolidate on the previous achievements.
“Now that politicking, campaigns and elections are over, let me assure you that our resolve to build on our past achievements of peaceful coexistence is non-negotiable.
“I therefore extend my hands of fellowship and urge everyone to share in this glory and the patriotic zeal of building a strong and productive Plateau state for generations to come.”
Presenting the certificates, on Friday in Jos at the INEC Secretariat, Prof Antonia told the Governor-Elect, his Deputy Prof Sonni Tyoden and 23 legislators- elect to endeavor to fulfil campaign promises made to citizens during electioneering.
“I encourage you (Simon Lalong) to deliver more material benefits to your people in order to meet their aspiration.”
The INEC boss commended Plateau state electorates for the peacefully conduct during all the elections but however urged all candidates and political parties who are not satisfied with the results of the elections to seek legal means to address their issues.
“The Commission (INEC) advises disgruntled persons and parties to feel free to seek judicial remedy where they believe they have genuine case (s) to pursue
Earlier, Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) Plateau state, Mallam Hussaini Halilu Pai, in a speech commended all stakeholders for ensuing the success of the entire process.
Presenting certificates of return to the 23 state House of Assembly members elect, the Plateau state (REC) paid tributes to late Ezekiel Afon, member elect who died shortly after he was pronounced winner of the Pengana state constituency elections.
“It is unfortunate that one of you Mr. Ezekiel Afon could not make it because he died shortly after he was declared as the winner of the Pengana state assembly constituency elections, may his soul rest in Peace.”
