INEC Issues Certificate of Return to Col Augustine Okwudiri Akobundu of the PDP, as Senator-Elect for Abia Central District(photos) | #NwokeukwuMascot

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Following Appeal Court Ruling Asking Hon Darlington Nwokocha of the Labour Party to Vacate Seat | #NwokeukwuMascot 

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Abuja, Nigeria - The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a certificate of return to Col Augustine Okwudiri Akobundu, declaring him as the senator-elect for Abia Central District. This development comes after the Appeal Court ruling asking Hon Darlington Nwokocha of the Labour Party, the previous occupant of the seat, to vacate it.

The certificate of return was presented to Col Akobundu by the INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, during a ceremony held at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja. This official recognition by INEC solidifies Akobundu’s win and paves the way for him to assume his duties as the representative of Abia Central District in the Nigerian Senate.

The Appeal Court ruling, which prompted the issuance of the certificate of return to Col Akobundu, followed a legal battle between him and Hon Darlington Nwokocha. The court determined that Nwokocha’s election victory in the senatorial elections was marred by irregularities and ordered him to vacate the seat.

 Certified True Copy of the Appeal Court Judgement 

Speaking at the ceremony, Professor Yakubu emphasized INEC’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that the electoral process remains transparent and fair. He commended the judiciary for its role in resolving electoral disputes and ensuring that the will of the people prevails.

Col Akobundu, a member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), expressed his gratitude to the judiciary for upholding the sanctity of the electoral process. He also thanked the people of Abia Central District for their unwavering support throughout the legal battle.

“I am deeply grateful to the judiciary for their wisdom and for affirming the will of the people. I assure the people of Abia Central District that I will work tirelessly to represent their interests and bring about positive change in our district,” Col Akobundu stated.

The senator-elect acknowledged the challenges faced by his constituents, including unemployment, inadequate healthcare facilities, and poor infrastructure. He pledged to prioritize these issues and work towards their resolution for the betterment of the people in Abia Central District.

In a press release signed by Hon. Elder Abraham Amah, the Vice-Chairman/Acting State Publicity Secretary of the Abia PDP, the party expressed congratulations and gratitude to the judiciary for its fair treatment. The release also assured Colonel Akobundu's numerous supporters of the party's commitment to fulfilling all campaign promises.

“ The State Chairman of Abia PDP Rt. Hon. Dr Alwell Asiforo Okere on behalf of the candidate of the PDP in the 2023 Abia governorship election, Sir Okey Ahiwe, his running mate Dr. Jasper Uche, members of the State Working Committee, SWC and enlarged State Executive Committee, SEC heartily congratulates the Senator-elect for Abia Central Senatorial zone, Col. Austin Akobundu on the issuance of Certificate of Return by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC following the restoration of your mandate by the Appeal Court that removed former Senate Minority Whip, Darlington Nwokeocha from office.

"Your victory at the Appeal Court is a victory not only for you, the good people of Abia Central Senatorial zone and Abia State but also a victory for democracy and all lovers of justice, equity and fair play in Nigeria. 

"As you assume office as a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in the next few days, the Abia PDP is assured of your superlative performance based on the experience you have garnered over the years in the military, intelligence, administrative and political sectors of Nigeria. 

"We also guaranteed of a fruitful and rewarding tenure that would uplift the good people of Abia Central, Abia State and Nigeria in general through your robust and invaluable contributions on the floor of the National Assembly.

"Abia PDP reminds you that the reward for hard work is more hard and we use this opportunity to assure you that the Abia PDP is solidly behind you as a partner in progress to make Nigeria a better place for us and  generations to come. 

"Once again, Congratulations Senator-elect for Abia Central Senatorial zone, Col. Austin Akobundu.PDP - Power to the People". Hon Amah Ended.

 The certificate of return issued to Col Austin Akobundu 

As Col Akobundu assumes his new role as senator-elect for Abia Central District, the expectations of his constituents are high. It is hoped that he will use his position to bring about positive change, promote good governance, and contribute to the overall development of Abia Central District and Nigeria as a whole.