SDP’s Ajaka rejects Appeal Court ruling on Kogi governorship election

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) governorship candidate in Kogi State, Murtala Ajaka, has rejected the verdict of the Appeal Court which upheld Governor Usman Ododo’s victory in last year’s governorship election in the state.
The Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja had earlier on Thursday upheld Ododo’s victory in the poll held on November 11, 2023.
In Thursday’s proceeding, the appellate court resolved all four grounds of appeal against the appellants.
The court held that the SDP and its candidate failed to prove the allegation of fraud in the election.
It added that the allegation of certificate forgery against the governor was a pre-election matter that should have been resolved by the Federal High Court.
However, in a statement issued in Lokoja, the SDP candidate alleged that the verdict was influenced by manipulations.
Ajaka added that he would appeal the appeal court at the Supreme Court.
He stressed that the journey to reclaiming his mandate was not limited to the appellate court decision.
READ ALSO: Appeal Court upholds Gov Ododo’s election in Kogi
“We must remain relentless in our pursuit of justice. We cannot afford to be deterred by setbacks or disheartened by temporary defeats. Our cause is justice and our determination will not waver. We must stand united and continue to support our legal team as they navigate these complex legal waters on our behalf.
“I want to assure you, our political followers that victory is within our grasp. We firmly believe that the truth will prevail, and justice will be served. We have full faith in the Nigerian judicial system, and we are confident that the apex court will rectify the injustices that have been inflicted upon us once again.
“We understand the frustration and anger that may arise from this situation, but resorting to violence or any form of unlawful behaviour is not the solution. We must continue to uphold the principles of democracy and fight for justice through legal means.
“We have tirelessly fought for the rights and interests of the people of Kogi State and we will not let this temporary setback deter us from our mission.
“We understand that this decision may have brought about feelings of disappointment and frustration among our supporters, but we want to assure you that this setback will not stop our determination to use all legal means to reclaim our stolen mandate.”
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