Nigerian SDP Candidate Vows to Reclaim Stolen Mandate at Supreme Court
Alhaji Murtala Yakubu Ajaka, the Social Democratic Party’s (SDP) candidate in the November 11, 2023, governorship election in Kogi State, has pledged to reclaim what he termed a stolen mandate at the Supreme Court.
Ajaka made this statement on Thursday, shortly after the Court of Appeal in Abuja upheld the victory of Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo as the duly elected Governor of Kogi State.
Despite the disappointment and frustration among his supporters, Ajaka emphasized that his party would not be deterred from pursuing their rights and interests. "We will not let this temporary setback stop us from using all legal means to reclaim our stolen mandate," he stated.
The SDP governorship candidate called on his supporters and citizens of Kogi State to remain calm and peaceful in the face of the disappointment and injustice. He urged them to resist the temptation to resort to violence or unlawful behavior and instead continue to uphold the principles of democracy and fight for justice through legal means.
Ajaka extended his gratitude to his legal team, who have worked tirelessly throughout the legal battle, and assured them that they would continue to fight with every ounce of their expertise and legal prowess until justice is served to the people of Kogi State.
"We understand that this verdict may have caused some to feel disheartened and even depressed. However, we urge you not to lose hope. Our journey to reclaiming our stolen mandate is not limited to this decision. This is just another step in a series of legal battles that we are prepared to take to the very end," he said.
Ajaka expressed his confidence that the truth would prevail and justice would be served, emphasizing that his party had full faith in the Nigerian judicial system and was confident that the apex court would rectify the injustices that had been inflicted upon them once again.
He concluded by calling on his supporters to use this setback as fuel to propel them forward, to ignite a fire within them that would burn even brighter, and to emerge victorious. "Let us stand tall, united, and unwavering in our pursuit of justice. The journey may be arduous, but the destination will be worth it," he said.
