The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)has officially presented Certificates of Return to candidates who emerged victorious in the bye-elections conducted on 20 June 2026 across Rivers, Enugu, Nasarawa, Ondo, and Kano States.
The announcement was contained in a statement issued by the electoral body on Tuesday, confirming the formal completion of post-election processes for the affected constituencies. The presentation of certificates marks the final administrative step affirming the electoral victories of the successful candidates.
According to the Commission, the certificates were issued on behalf of the INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, SAN, and were presented by the Supervising National Commissioner for Rivers State, Mrs May Agbamuche-Mbu.
Speaking at the ceremony, Agbamuche-Mbu congratulated the newly elected representatives and urged them to remain committed to the responsibilities of public office. She emphasised that elected officials must prioritise the needs and welfare of their constituents above personal or partisan interests.
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“The most important responsibility before you is to represent your constituents well,” she said, while reminding the winners that public expectations remain high following their electoral success.
She further encouraged the elected officials to demonstrate accountability, diligence, and dedication in carrying out their legislative duties, noting that their performance would be closely watched by the electorate who entrusted them with their mandate.
INEC also disclosed that similar Certificate of Return presentations would be extended to winners of other recently concluded elections. These include the Zuru State Constituency election in Kebbi State, as well as the governorship election in Ekiti State, both of which were finalised following the completion of collation and result verification processes.
The Commission reiterated that the June 20 bye-elections were conducted in line with its established electoral guidelines and were aimed at filling vacant legislative seats across the affected states. It added that the successful conclusion of the elections reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic processes and improve electoral credibility.
Observers have noted that bye-elections often serve as a litmus test for public confidence in the electoral system, particularly in assessing the performance of the electoral body and the conduct of political actors at sub-national levels.
With the issuance of Certificates of Return now completed for the June 20 contests, attention is expected to shift towards the performance of the newly elected representatives as they assume legislative responsibilities in their respective constituencies.
