By Ayodele Oni
Both winner and loser in the petition filed to challenge the outcome of October 10, 2020 Governorship election in Ondo state have reacted to Tuesday’s judgement of the election petition tribunal.
Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, whose reelection was upheld by the Tribunal, described the judgement as a reflection of the law and people’s wish.
The petitioner, Mr Eyitayo Jegede of the People’s Democratic Party, (PDP) expressed dissatisfaction with the outcome of the petition and vowed to challenge it.
But he Governor again extended his hand of fellowship to his opponent saying he has no enemy to hold any grudge against as a result of the Tribunal case.
“For every purpose and mission endorsed by God, the will to navigate the clouds of uncertainties and the path of thorns becomes stronger if backed by faith.
“In our own case, our faith is unshakable. It is, therefore, with gratitude to God that we accept the verdict of the Honourable Tribunal.
“We have gone through this legal process and the path of Justice with the hope that the true position of the Law shall once again, be examined and exposed. The industry and legal expertise demonstrated by the Honourable Tribunal has corroborated this desire.
“We were equally enamoured by the inexorable quest to renew our social bond with the good people of State while the legal tussle was on. In an unambiguous manner, the Tribunal verdict has further fermented this bond and strengthened the wish of the people.
“Notwithstanding, the legal process was not just part of our democratic culture. Legal paths, without doubt, provide in some cases, certain opportunities that permeate fresh frontiers.
“Therefore, the ability to extend the hands of friendship, the courage to absorb even the undeserving as well as the magnanimity to reinvigorate old, laxed relationships without grudges is what makes a real democrat. I hold no grudges against anyone.
“Once again, the good people of Ondo State, without any stratification, remain my constituents. We shall together, move the State to higher and loftier heights.
“For my brother, friend and colleague, Eyitayo Jegede, my respect for him cannot wane and I enjoin him to join hands with us in this Ondo Project. There is no victor, no vanquished
The PDP Ondo State Chapter and its Candidate, said they will appeal the judgement of the Elections Tribunal delivered virtually on Tuesday.
A statement by the spokesman of the party, Mr Kenedy Peretei, stated that: “It is important to stress that, in its wisdom, the Tribunal admitted that issues raised by the petitioners were sufficient for consideration, but Constitutional, which the Tribunal is not in a position to do justice to.
“The interpretation of the Constitution is a role reserved exclusively for the highest Court in the land- the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
“The Constitution of every country is the document that regulates actions and behavior of her citizens.
“Therefore, it is our belief that nobody can flagrantly trample on the 1999 Constitution (as Amended) and escape with the excuse that the Tribunal has no jurisdiction.
“The PDP is convinced that, we have a strong case for which we shall be vindicated at the end of the day.
“We wish to appeal to all our party faithfuls to be steadfast and remain calm in the present circumstance, as we are sure of victory in the long run.”
Both Akeredolu and Jegede are Senior Lawyers – Senior Advocates of Nigeria, SAN.
