The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially handed a Certificate of Return to the newly elected member representing Karim I State Constituency in the Taraba State House of Assembly. The event took place in accordance with the stipulations of the Electoral Act 2022.
During the brief presentation ceremony, the Taraba State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Alhaji Umar Mukhtar Gajiram, described the election as transparent, lawful, and devoid of major disturbances.
“At the end of collation, the candidate of the All Progressive Congress APC, Abner Shittu was duly return as the winner.
“Today, in fulfilment of our mandate, the Commission is presenting to him the Certificate of Return as evidence of the confidence reposed in him by his Constituents.
“To you Honourable Shittu Abner, I extend my Congratulations. The Certificate of Return you receiving today represent the trust of your people. I encourage you to carry this mandate with humility and a commitment to service.
“On behalf of the Independent Electoral Commission, it is my privilege to present this Certificate of Return to you, Honorable Shittu Abner of APC.”
He commended voters, political parties, security personnel, election observers, and both permanent and ad hoc staff of the Commission for their contributions to the successful conduct of the exercise.
“Despite the difficult terrain of Karim Lamido, which involves both land and water transportation, the process was concluded smoothly and no voter was disenfranchised,” he added.
The Commissioner further disclosed that the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise had commenced.
“Online pre-registration began on 18th August 2025, while in-person registration will commence on 25th August 2025 at Designay centres,” he announced. He urged political parties, community leaders, and stakeholders to encourage eligible residents to take part.
Speaking shortly after receiving his Certificate, the Member-elect for Karim I Constituency, Honourable Abner Shittu Dahbo, expressed gratitude to his people.
“My Victory is Victory for Karim 1 Constituency,” he declared.
“Today, I have collected my Certificate of Return as the validly elected member from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). This is my first message after our victory at the by-election held on Saturday, 16th August 2025.”
Shittu said he regarded his triumph as a social contract with the people of Karim I and promised to serve them faithfully.
“I strongly believe that the mandate you gave me to represent this great Constituency was built on a social contract. As your representative, I will always be your servant who shall at all costs promote and defend your interests in government.
“I could not thank you enough for the trust and confidence you reposed in me. To all my supporters, friends, and well-wishers, I will forever remain grateful to you all.”
He acknowledged several individuals and groups whose roles contributed to the outcome of the election.
Hon. Shittu recognised the political guidance of His Excellency Sani Abubakar Danladi, describing him as a mentor whose efforts and sacrifices paved the way for the victory. He also appreciated the leadership of the All Progressives Congress in Taraba State, including the State Chairman, Barr. Ibrahim Tukur El-Sudi, and the National Deputy Women Leader, Hajiya Zainab Ibrahim.
“I must commend the All Progressives Congress, Taraba State Chairman, and National Deputy Women Leader, Barr. Ibrahim Tukur El-Sudi, Hajiya Zainab Ibrahim, for their commitment to our great party’s victory at the polls. Additionally, I am indebted to Hon. Jerry Manwe, Rt. Hon. Habu Isa Ajiya, and my Campaign Director, Hon. Stephen Othaniel, among many others, whose names time and space will not permit me to mention. I want to say thank you to you all for the solidarity.”
He further conveyed appreciation to Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas, for ensuring a fair playing ground throughout the process.
“More so, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) deserves my commendation for conducting the freest and fairest by-election. I appreciate all heads of security agencies for their professionalism in ensuring a seamless electoral process.
“Above all in God, we trust for His power and dominion over everything in the affairs of mankind. Thank you all,” he concluded.
According to INEC, similar Certificate of Return presentations took place in other constituencies across the country. The affected areas include Ganye in Adamawa State, Onitsha North I in Anambra State, Basawa and Zaria/Kewaye in Kaduna State, Bagwai/Shanono and Ghari/Tsanyawa in Kano State, Okura in Kogi State, and Munya in Niger State.