By Izunna Okafor, Awka
It was a historic moment of fulfilment and celebration on Thursday as Chief Emmanuel Chibuzor Nwachukwu (Onọdụgo) officially received his Certificate of Return from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), confirming him as the duly-elected Senator for Anambra South Senatorial District.
The brief but colourful event, which held at the INEC Headquarters, Abuja, came on the heels of Nwachukwu’s resounding victory in the August 16, 2025, Anambra South senatorial by-election. The presentation ceremony was conducted by the Supervising National Commissioner, Dr. Kenneth Ukeagu, who commended the peaceful and exemplary conduct of the election, describing it as a model worthy of emulation across the country.
In a post on his social media handle shortly after receiving the certificate, Nwachukwu expressed deep appreciation to INEC for conducting what he described as a transparent, free, and fair election that reflected the voice and will of the people. He also applauded the discipline, unity, and collective spirit of Ndị Anambra South, noting that their conduct was instrumental in ensuring the credibility of the exercise.
According to him, the success of the election was not his achievement alone but indicative of the resilience of the people under the purposeful leadership of Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, whose support he also acknowledged and specially lauded.
While dedicating the victory to the entire people of Anambra South, the Senator-elect assured them of his dedication to justify the confidence reposed in him. He pledged to serve with honour, courage, and humility, and to ensure that the voice of his constituency resonates strongly in the Senate, particularly in advancing the cause of development and the progressive ideals for which APGA stands.
Nwachukwu also revealed in the post that shortly after receiving the Certificate of Return, he and his entourage proceeded to the National Secretariat of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Abuja, where he was warmly received by the National Chairman of the party, Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa Jnr., alongside members of the National Working Committee. He said the APGA Leadership, during the visit, reaffirmed their solid support for him and expressed confidence in his ability to make the party and the people of Anambra proud in the National Assembly.
The Senator-elect, at the APGA office, described his victory as one that belongs to the people rather than an individual. He emphasized that it was a triumph for Ndị Anambra South, for APGA, and for the progressive spirit of the zone. He further urged the people to remain steadfast, united, and supportive as he embarks on the task of providing effective representation in the Red Chamber. He thanked his constituents once again for entrusting him with their mandate, assuring them that he would not disappoint.
With the presentation of the Certificate of Return, Nwachukwu is set to take his seat in the Senate (upon resumption of the National Assembly from recess), where he promised to make the collective interests of Anambra South his utmost priority.
