The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State, Oladipupo Adebutu, has expressed hope and optimism after the Court of Appeal delivered a split judgment on the state governorship election.
In a statement issued by the Media Director of Ladi Adebutu Campaign Organisation, Afolabi, the candidate described the judgment as a boost to his efforts in reclaiming what he referred to as his “stolen mandate.”
The Court of Appeal, sitting in Lagos, delivered a split judgment with Justices J.S. Ikyegh and Muhammed Mustapha upholding the decision of the election petition tribunal, which affirmed the election of Governor Abiodun.
However, Justice Jane Inyang ordered a rerun in 92 polling units and faulted the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for declaring Abiodun the winner of the governorship election.
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Adebutu expressed his satisfaction with the appeal judgment, stating, “The appeal judgment that can be described as the pathway to victory 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.”
He highlighted the importance of the appellate court addressing the case on its merits, unlike the Election Petition Tribunal, which dismissed his case on technicalities.
Adebutu commended Justice Jane Inyang for delivering a minority judgment that detailed the violations observed and emphasized the need for uprightness in the judicial process.
The minority judgment by Justice Jane Inyang reportedly called for the recall of the incumbent governor’s certificate of return and ordered a rerun in the affected 92 polling units where elections were canceled due to violence and malpractices.
Adebutu urged his supporters to remain steadfast, emphasizing their commitment to the vision of a brighter future for Ogun State.
He concluded by expressing confidence that the truth would prevail, and justice would ultimately be served.
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