The Ogun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party on Friday night congratulated Governor Dapo Abiodun for his electoral victory in last year’s March governorship election as affirmed on Friday by the Supreme Court, Abuja.
The party, in a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Akinloye Bankole said that it has accepted the reality of the court verdict which affirmed the election of Gov. Dapo Abiodun of the All Progressives Congress and has decided to move on and keep contributing to strengthening the democratic ideals
A five-member panel of the court led by Justice John Okoro had in a unanimous judgment on Friday dismissed the appeal by Oladipupo Adebutu, the PDP candidate in the last governorship election in the state.
The party said “With the Supreme Court judgement which was delivered earlier today on the 2023 Governorship Election in Ogun state, it is clear that the matter has reached its constitutional endpoint and is finally settled.
“The Apex Court affirmed that the Petitioners were not able to discharge the heavy judicial burden of proving that the reelection of Prince Dapo Abiodun as the lawfully elected Governor of Ogun State was valid.
“The Apex Court asserted that our Candidate and the Party did not prove beyond reasonable doubt that Governor Dapo Abiodun did not win the highest number of lawful votes.
“In light of this, the Ogun State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party wishes to extend hearty congratulations to the State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun and the good people of Ogun State.”
The party also urged the members of the party not to be disheartened over the defeat suffered at the Supreme Court but to rather keep contributing their quota to the development of the state.
“We also wish to encourage our loyal party members and unrepentant supporters who have invested all their energy and resources in the fortune of the party to remain strong and maintain optimism as the matter has been conclusively decided by the Apex Court.
“As a responsible political organization with an unwavering belief in the democratic process, principles and ethics, the PDP has no option but to move forward after the highest court has issued a conclusive judgment on the matter.
“Our great party remains committed and dedicated to fostering a thriving democracy and we will refrain from any action and/or inactions that undermine patriotic efforts of deepening the roots of constitutional democracy in Ogun State and the country at large.
“In the face of this reality, we encourage the good people of Ogun State to remain steadfast, re-dedicate and direct all efforts to the well-being and prosperity of the State as we are confident that another opportunity to serve the State will present itself shortly.
“We will not allow this momentary setback to dampen our spirits and patriotic resolve to liberate and reposition Ogun State for greatness.
It added, “Our candidate, Hon. Oladipupo Olatunde Adebutu remains ever committed to public service and will continue to make himself available whenever the need arises.”
The party appreciate all its members and distinguished leaders across the 20 Local Government Areas in the state, saying, “your dedication during the campaigns, at the polls, and throughout the legal proceedings has not gone unnoticed.
The peace and development of the State are our utmost priorities.”
