Ajaka seeks probe, culprits’ prosecution

The Social Democratic Party governorship candidate, Murtala Ajaka, in the November 11, 2023 governorship election in Kogi State, has called on the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and other relevant security agencies to investigate the vicious attack on him and his supporters by some thugs.

Ajaka and his supporters were attacked at the Supreme Court in Abuja on Friday after the five-member panel of justices of the apex court in a judgment, dismissed his appeal challenging the election victory of Usman Ododo of the All Progressives Congress for lacking in merit.

Ajaka, in a statement on Saturday, condemned the attack on his person in the strongest terms, terming it “an assault on democracy itself.”

He added, “I urge the Inspector General of Police and relevant security agencies to investigate this matter thoroughly, ensuring that culprits are brought to justice to serve as a deterrent to others.

“In a democratic society, attacks on a governorship candidate, because he explored a legal means to reclaim his stolen mandate are inexcusable and will not be tolerated.”

Speaking on the judgment of the Supreme Court which affirmed Ododo as the winner of the gubernatorial poll in the state, Ajaka said that although he respects the decision of the Supreme Court and its role in upholding the rule of law, he however rejects the outcome of the judgement.

He said, “The world has witnessed the miscarriage of justice in our nation’s judiciary system, and we cannot help but feel a deep sense of disappointment and disillusionment.

“The judgement has left many questions unanswered and has further eroded the trust of the Nigerian people in the judiciary.

“We reject the outcome even though we have no other options available we will abide by the decision of the apex court.”

He appreciated his legal and media teams for their efforts, expertise, and commitment to working tirelessly with him to reclaim his alleged stolen mandate.

He urged them to stay strong and prepare for 2027 when they will have to regroup and come back stronger.

“To my supporters, I feel your pain and disappointment. We did our best, leaving no stone unturned, but the system failed us. We fought a good fight, but the outcome is not a reflection of our efforts.

“However, we take solace in the fact that 2027 is around the corner, and we will know what to do. We will regroup, reassess, and come back stronger.

“We consider this chapter closed, but our focus now shifts to supporting the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in bringing Yahaya Bello to book. We will provide all necessary support to ensure accountability and transparency in governance”, Ajaka said.