THIS DAWN — The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has formally presented the Certificate of Return to Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, following his resounding victory in the November 8, 2025 governorship election.
The presentation ceremony, held at the state headquarters of INEC in Awka, was presided over by the INEC National Commissioner supervising the Anambra election, Mr. Kenneth Ikeagu.
Governor Soludo was accompanied by his wife and advocate of “Healthy Living,” Mrs. Nonye Soludo.
Also present at the occasion was his deputy, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, and his wife.
The brief but significant event was attended by top government officials, political allies, party chieftains, supporters, and well-wishers.
Before presenting the certificates, Ikeagu explained that the ceremony was in compliance with the provisions of Section 72(1) of the Electoral Act 2022.
The Act mandates INEC to issue a certificate of return within fourteen days to any candidate duly declared winner by the returning officer.
“We are here to present the certificates of return to the Governor and Deputy Governor of Anambra State following their successful outing during the governorship election held on Saturday, November 8, 2025,” Ikeagu announced to a round of applause.
A thunderous ovation filled the hall as the certificate was handed to Governor Soludo, who received it with a broad smile and appreciation.
“Credible and historic election”
In his remarks, the governor commended INEC, its new chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan, and the Commission’s staff for conducting what he described as “a credible and historic election.”
“I congratulate INEC and its new chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan.
“I said it before that you do not get a second chance to create a first impression, and INEC has made a remarkable one.
“We are delighted that his first major outing as chairman took place here in Anambra, and it was loud and clear for all the world to see.
“INEC deserves more credit than it has been given,” Soludo said.
He further expressed optimism about Nigeria’s democratic journey, noting that the Anambra election demonstrates that credible elections are achievable in the country.
““There is hope for this country. I always see Nigeria as half full, not half empty,” he remarked.
He also extended gratitude to the security agencies for their professionalism and impartiality during the polls.
Highlighting the magnitude of his victory, Governor Soludo revealed that nearly 600,000 voters participated in the election—an unprecedented turnout in the state’s history.
“For the first time in Anambra, a candidate polled 73 percent of the total votes cast, winning 98 percent of all wards and 99 percent of polling units.
“In several local governments, we did not lose a single polling unit,” he noted with pride.
“Let the votes count”
Soludo also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, commending his commitment to democratic principles.
“I want to thank the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu, for his firm stand that this is a democracy and that the votes of the people must count,” he said.
The governor lauded INEC for restoring confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system and reaffirmed his belief that the nation’s elections are improving with every cycle.
“Our electoral process has been getting better year after year.
“In the by-election held in August, our position was clear—let the votes count.
“INEC upheld that principle, and for the first time, APGA won a Senate election with 75 percent simply because the votes were allowed to count.
“Once again, INEC has proven that free, fair, credible, and transparent elections are possible,” he emphasized.
Building a peaceful, progressive, and prosperous state
In a show of magnanimity, Soludo extended an olive branch to his fellow contestants, calling for unity and cooperation in the state’s development.
“To the other candidates, I say we are brothers. In 2010, I ran for governor.
“Even though I believed the process was flawed and scored only 30 percent, I called a press conference two hours later to congratulate the winner.
“That is who we are in Anambra,” he recalled.
Concluding his address, Governor Soludo thanked the people of Anambra for their overwhelming support and resilience.
“To Ndi Anambra who came out in their numbers, stood under the sun, and made their voices heard—you are the true heroes of democracy.
“Together, we will continue to build a peaceful, progressive, and prosperous Anambra State,” he said.
