PDP optimistic amidst Ogun Guber setback

The Ogun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed a mix of “hope and satisfaction” in response to the recent Appeal Court judgment concerning the March 18 governorship election. The appellate court, sitting in Lagos, upheld the victory of Governor Dapo Abiodun from the All Progressives Congress (APC).

While two judges dismissed PDP’s Ladi Adebutu’s appeal, citing a lack of merit, one judge acknowledged merit in the petition. This led to an order for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to withdraw the certificate of return from Abiodun and conduct a new election in 99 polling units where disruptions occurred.

In a statement released by Akinloye Bankole, the PDP spokesperson in Ogun State, the party expressed satisfaction that “the cause of true justice in reclaiming the mandate freely given to the PDP by the good people of Ogun state… is achievable after all.”

Acknowledging the appellate court’s consideration of the inherent merits of their petition, the PDP contrasted it with the Election Petition Tribunal’s focus on technicalities. The party expressed gratitude for the restoration of hope through the judgment, particularly addressing technical issues highlighted in the tribunal’s decision.

The statement specifically commended Hon. Justice Jane Inyang for her courage and boldness in delivering a minority judgment that called for Abiodun’s removal from office, withdrawal of his Certificate of Return, and a rerun election in the affected 99 polling units.

Regarding Governor Abiodun’s call for Adebutu to join his government, the PDP dismissed it as laughable and an insult. They reminded Abiodun that his current victory is “pyrrhic” and cautioned him against celebrating too soon, as the legal battle continues at the highest court.

The PDP affirmed their commitment to the cause, expressing gratitude to their supporters and the people of Ogun State. They vowed to take the battle to the highest level of judicial intervention, maintaining a sense of optimism despite the setback.