The gubernatorial candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun state, Ladi Adebutu, responded to Governor Dapo Abiodun’s victory at the Court of Appeal on Friday, characterizing it as “only temporary” and advising the governor not to celebrate prematurely.
The Court of Appeal, situated in Lagos, affirmed Abiodun’s election as the legitimately chosen governor of Ogun state in the March 18, 2023, gubernatorial elections. Justices J.S. Ikyegh and Muhammed Mustapha dismissed Adebutu’s appeal, citing a lack of merit, while Justice Jane Inyang, in a separate judgment, directed INEC to conduct a rerun within 90 days in 92 polling units affected by canceled elections due to violence and malpractices.
In response to the court’s decision, Adebutu, conveyed through his spokesperson, Afolabi Orekoya, hinted at the intention to pursue justice by approaching the Supreme Court along with his party.
The PDP chieftain said the Appeal court judgment was an indication that “true justice is on the way and the hope of reclaiming the mandate of the good people of Ogun state is drawing nearer”.
Adebutu said, “The appeal judgement that can be described as the pathway to victory. It resolved unanimously, five out the eight issues in our favour, only one issue in favour of the respondents (Dapo Abiodun and APC) while the other two issues were resolved in ratio two to one.
“We are indeed glad and hopeful that the judiciary at higher level is gradually considering the merits of the petition unlike the lower court that chose to address technicalities in place of merit. Obviously, that human decision has no place in our rule of law and cannot stand. It is however heartwarming that the appeal court resolved all the issues.
“We specially want to salute the courage and boldness of Hon. Justice Jane Inyang who delivered the minority judgment that was well detailed and true to the provisions of the rule of law.
“The judgment which sacked the incumbent Governor, recalled his certificate of return and ordered INEC to organize a rerun within 90 days in the affected 92 polling units where election was cancelled due to violence and election malpractices. This reputable judge also said that INEC should not have made a declaration on the March 18th Governorship election, a fact that is enshrined in the electoral act considering the margin of lead rule.
“We make bold to say that if our courts can emulate the uprightness of Hon. Justice Jane Inyang, there will be a great hope for a greater Nigeria and democracy.
“It should be crystal clear to the placeholders in government of Ogun State that they need not to rejoice over nothing as what they enjoy now is temporal and can not last because the truth will still prevail.
“We call on all the good people and stakeholders in Ogun State to celebrate Hon. Justice Jane Inyang as a role model for true justice and pray for more of such courageous Justices as we move up the ladder.
“We remain committed to our vision of a brighter future for our beloved State.
“To our supporters; Your tenacity and unwavering faith in our cause has continued to replenish our strength even as we continue this battle to reclaiming our mandate. As we continue this legal battle to the top of the ladder, please remain steadfast, the truth will ultimately prevail, and the will of the people will be acknowledged.”
