The Yobe State Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC) has presented certificates of return to the 17 local government chairmen and their vice chairmen elected in the state's recent 2026 council polls. The presentation was made at the commission's headquarters in Damaturu, ahead of their inauguration. This marks a significant step towards the formal assumption of office by the newly elected council leaders.
Speaking at the event, SIEC chairman, Dr. Ibrahim Mohammad Yabani, commended the elected chairmen and vice chairmen for their victory, describing it as a validation of their dedication, character, and track record of delivering development to the grassroots level. He emphasized the importance of continuous improvement, citing a Hausa proverb that encourages striving for excellence even when one is already doing well.
Dr. Yabani charged the incoming council bosses to prioritize impactful grassroots projects and drive inclusive governance. He urged them to reciprocate the trust reposed in them by their communities by doubling their efforts and pioneering meaningful development initiatives. This, he believes, will help to deepen democracy and improve the lives of the people at the grassroots level.
The SIEC chairman attributed the credibility of the exercise to Governor Mai Mala Buni's strict policy of non-interference, which allowed the commission to deliver a fair and transparent election. He commended the state government for providing critical financial support and maintaining a policy of non-interference, enabling the commission to execute the exercise successfully.
Dr. Yabani expressed gratitude to Governor Mai Mala Buni for his commitment to deepening democracy in the state. He also announced that the commission had received two awards for Good Leadership, Performance, and Exceptional Achievement in Election Administration from the Coalition of Civil Society Organizations and the Visiting Journalists Association, respectively.
The awards, according to Dr. Yabani, are a testament to the commission's collective integrity and commitment to delivering credible elections. He dedicated the awards to the entire commission's team, acknowledging their hard work and dedication to the electoral process.
The presentation of certificates of return to the elected local government chairmen and their vice chairmen marks a significant milestone in the transition process. The new council leaders are expected to assume office soon, with a mandate to drive development and improve the lives of the people in their respective local government areas.
Key points
- Yobe SIEC presents certificates of return to 17 local government chairmen and their vice chairmen.
- SIEC chairman commends elected leaders for their victory and charges them to prioritize grassroots development.
- Commission receives awards for Good Leadership, Performance, and Exceptional Achievement in Election Administration.
