The Imo State Independent Electoral Commission (ISIEC), on Tuesday, presented certificates of return to the winners of Saturday’s local government chairmanship election in the state.

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) won all 27 chairmanships and 305 councillorship positions.

ISIEC chairman Charles Ejiogu said the certificates were presented in line with the provisions of the law.

He said certificates of return for the vice chairmen and councillors would be presented to them “in the next couple of days.

“What has just happened is the concrete demonstration of the will and determination of the people to express themselves democratically in an atmosphere devoid of bitterness and rancour.

“Observers have adjudged that the election was very peaceful, free, fair, transparent and credible,” Mr Ejiogu said.

He commended the Imo residents for their understanding and unflinching support of the commission.

Mr Ejiogu also commended Governor Hope Uzodumma for providing an enabling environment for the commission to carry out its statutory responsibility.

He also thanked security agencies, the media and 17 political parties that participated in the polls for their various support.

Two of the 27 chairmen-elect are female, while 14 other females emerged as vice chairpersons of various LGAs.

In an interview, the chairperson-elect for Okigwe LGA, Nkechi Mbonu, commended the governor for giving her the opportunity to serve as council chairman.

Also, the chairman-elect for Njaba LGA, Vitalis Obi, commended Mr Uzodimma and the people of the area for the confidence reposed in him.

(NAN)