The Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC) has formally presented Certificates of Return to winners of the Saturday, July 11, 2026 Local Government Elections held across the state.
Among those who received their certificates was the sole female chairmanship candidate in the race, Dame Vera Sadoh. Chairperson-Elect of Etsako Central Local Government Area
Dame Sadoh polled a total of 51,454 votes to emerge winner of the election.
Presenting the certificates at the Commission’s headquarters in Benin City, the EDSIEC Chairman, Mr. Jonathan Aifuobhokhan said the exercise marked the successful conclusion of the 2026 local government elections.
He congratulated all candidates who participated, especially those declared winners, and urged them to serve the people with honesty, fairness and accountability.
“The Certificate of Return is more than an official document. It is a mandate given to you by the people of your respective local government areas.
Public office is a sacred trust. Lead with integrity, humility and fairness, and always work for the good of the people,” he said.
Aifuobhokhan further urged the elected officials to promote peace and unity, carry everyone along irrespective of political affiliation, religion or ethnicity, and ensure prudent use of public resources.
He also charged them to focus on grassroots development that will directly improve the lives of the people.
The EDSIEC Chairman thanked the Edo State Government, security agencies, political parties, election observers, civil society organizations, traditional and religious leaders, the media, election officials and residents for their support, which he said contributed to the peaceful conduct of the election.
Speaking to journalists after receiving her certificate, Dame Sadoh, who hails from the Anegbette axis of Etsako Central, pledged to live up to the expectations of the electorate in line with the SHINE Agenda of Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo
She also expressed appreciation to the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state and party leaders at all levels for their support.
