By Damilola Origbemisuyi, Akure
Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission (ODIEC) has officially handed over certificates of return to the 18 chairmen-elect that triumphed in the January 18, 2025, Local Government elections under the banner of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The presentation ceremony took at the ODIEC headquarters in Akure, with the chairmen-elect, vice chairmen-elect, party leaders, and other notable dignitaries in attendance.
In his keynote address, the ODIEC Chairman, Dr. Joseph Aremo, commended the people of Ondo State for their active participation and their role in ensuring peace throughout the elections.
He highlighted the election’s success as a testament to the electorate’s dedication to fostering democracy and improving governance at the grassroots.
Dr. Aremo emphasised the constitutional importance of democratically electing local government leadership, urging the newly elected officials to uphold and justify the mandate entrusted to them by the people.
He called on them to utilise available resources prudently and prioritise people-oriented projects to meet the aspirations of the grassroots communities.
He further noted that the electorate had long yearned for purposeful leadership at the grassroots level and urged the chairmen-elect to fulfil their responsibilities effectively to maintain the public’s trust.
Dr. Aremo also reaffirmed ODIEC’s commitment to conducting credible elections that respect the decisions of the voters.
“Moreover, the peaceful atmosphere we are enjoying, we want it to continue,” he stated.
