By Sunday Apah
The Delta State House of Assembly Member-elect for Udu Constituency, Hon. Ator Okolosi, has received his Certificate of Return from the Independent National Electoral Commission in Asaba, Delta State.
Presenting the Certificate of Return to Hon. Ator Okolosi on Monday, 28th September 2026, Etekamba Udo Umoren stated that the ceremony was another important step in the democratic process.
According to him: “The Certificate of Return is a formal acknowledgement of the outcome of the electoral process of representing the people of Udu Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly.
“The election was conducted in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Electoral Act, and the regulations and guidelines of the Commission.
“You may recall that the Commission started the process on 20th August with the publication of the notice of election, then the conduct of primaries and the submission of nominated candidates by political parties, and finally on 19th September 2026.
“The bye-election for Udu State Constituency took place and Hon. Arthur Okolosi of the All Progressives Congress (APC), having scored the highest number of votes, was declared the winner.
“I want to commend all stakeholders who contributed to the peaceful conduct of the election, particularly the security agencies, political parties, the candidates, election officials, observers, the media, traditional institutions, and also the people of Udu Local Government Area.
“I also commend the people of Udu Local Government for their participation in the democratic process. Their votes constitute an expression of their constitutional right to choose their representative.
“Democracy is strengthened when citizens participate peacefully and respect the established electoral process.
“To the duly elected Honourable Member, I extend the Commission’s congratulations. The Certificate of Return being presented to you today is both an honour and a responsibility. It signifies the confidence reposed in you by the electorate and places upon you the duty to represent their interests with dedication, integrity and a strong sense of public service.
“Your new responsibility transcends political party affiliation. You are now expected to serve the entire constituency and to promote the interest, welfare and development of all constituents irrespective of their political, social and other affiliations,” he added.
In response, Hon. Ator Okolosi stated that the document is not merely a piece of paper; it is a sacred trust conferred upon him by the good people of Udu Constituency through the bye-election held on 19th September 2026.
According to him: “First and foremost, I thank Almighty God for His grace, protection, and the privilege of this moment. To the Resident Electoral Commissioner, the Administrative Secretary, and the entire management and staff of INEC Delta State, I express my profound appreciation.
“You conducted this bye-election with professionalism, transparency, and fairness. Your commitment to the integrity of our democratic process has strengthened the confidence of our people in the electoral system. Thank you for upholding the highest standards of electoral administration.
“To the amiable and working Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, and members of the Delta State House of Assembly, the State Chairman of the APC, Chief Solomon Arenyeka, the Delta Central Chairman of the APC, Chief Paulinus Akpeki, the members of the State Working Committee, and the entire leadership of our great party, I remain eternally grateful. Your guidance, support, and unity of purpose made this victory possible.
“To the leaders and members of the APC in Udu—our ward chairmen, women leaders, youth leaders, and every dedicated party faithful who worked tirelessly from the grassroots—I salute your sacrifice, loyalty, and unwavering belief in our shared vision. This victory belongs to all of us.
“To the people of Udu Constituency: the men, women, youth, and elders who came out in large numbers to exercise their franchise, I say a big thank you. You have given me the mandate to serve. I do not take this trust lightly. I pledge to be a voice for the voiceless, a bridge-builder, and a tireless advocate for the progress of our dear constituency.
“As I prepare to take my seat in the Delta State House of Assembly, my focus will remain clear: inclusive development across party lines.
“I call on all of us to continue in the spirit of unity and peace that characterised this election. Let us put the interest of Udu first. Together, we will write a new chapter of progress and prosperity.
“Once again, I thank INEC, my party leadership, the entire APC family in Udu, the press, and the good people of Udu Constituency. With humility and determination, I accept this Certificate of Return, and I promise to justify the confidence you have reposed in me,” he added.
Sir Sheba Kris Palama, Olorogun Eddie Ono-Sorhue, Hon. Chief Peter Uviejitobor, Hon. Chief Onajite Brown, Mr. Paul Krima (aka Okoloko Papa), Chief Igho Akpojotor, Hon. Ernest Mereh, Chief Obruche Oghenejiru, Chief Otto Ogbiruveta, Comrade Michael Ibada, Chief Clement Oshue, Ejovwo Onoriode Esq., and several others were present during the brief ceremony.
