Kogi State Governorship Candidate Murtala Ajaka Vows to Appeal Court’s Ruling, Calls for Calm
Murtala Ajaka, the governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the November 11, 2023 governorship election in Kogi State, has accused the Appeal Court of being influenced by irregularities and manipulations in its recent judgment upholding the election victory of state governor Usman Ododo of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Ajaka’s party had approached the Appeal Court to set aside the judgment of the state election petition tribunal, which dismissed his petition for lacking in merit. However, the Appeal Court upheld the tribunal’s judgment, prompting Ajaka to announce that he will appeal the decision.
Despite the setback, Ajaka remains determined to reclaim his mandate, saying that the journey is not limited to the decision of the appellate court. In a statement, he urged his supporters to remain calm and peaceful in the face of disappointment and injustice.
"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," Ajaka said.
He assured his supporters that victory is within their grasp, citing their unwavering commitment to justice and their faith in the Nigerian judicial system. Ajaka also commended his legal team for their tireless efforts throughout the legal battle, saying that their brilliance, dedication, and commitment to justice have been evident at every step of the way.
"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," Ajaka said.
The governorship candidate’s statement comes as a response to the Appeal Court’s ruling, which dismissed his petition for lacking in merit. Ajaka’s supporters have expressed frustration and anger over the decision, but he has urged them to remain calm and peaceful, citing the principles of democracy and the importance of fighting for justice through legal means.
Ajaka’s determination to appeal the decision is a testament to his commitment to reclaiming his mandate and ensuring that justice is served in the governorship election dispute. As the battle for justice continues, Ajaka’s supporters remain steadfast in their support for their leader, who has vowed to use all legal means to reclaim his stolen mandate.
