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Why I Will Fight Tinubu – Atiku Abubakar

September 8, 2023

I am here to give my official reaction to the judgment delivered yesterday by the Presidential Election Petition Court on the 2023 presidential election.

As you already know, I approached the court following the declaration by INEC that the APC and its candidate are the winners of the February 25, Presidential Election.

My decision to go to court is anchored in my belief that the court is the sanctuary of justice. The journey of my political career, as you know, holds so much to the courage and fearless decisions of our judiciary.

Indeed, I am no stranger to legal battles, and I can say that I have a fair idea of how the court system works. All through my career as a politician, I have been a fighter, and I must say that I have found the judiciary as a worthy pillar to rest on in the pursuit of justice.

The last presidential election in our country and the way it was managed by the electoral umpire, the Independent National Electoral Commission, leaves behind unenviable precedents, which I believe the courts have a duty to redress. Our gains in ensuring transparent elections through the deployment of technology was heavily compromised by INEC in the way it managed the last presidential election, and I am afraid that the judgement of the court as rendered by the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal yesterday, failed to restore confidence in our dreams of free and fair elections devoid of human manipulations.

Like I did say at the beginning of this legal battle when I instructed my lawyers to file my petition challenging the outcome of the presidential election, my ultimate goal in this pursuit is to ensure that democracy is further strengthened through the principles and processes of fair hearing.

Gentlemen of the press, I take great pains to tell you that the decision of the court of first instance on this matter utterly falls far short of that expectation. I am therefore here to tell you that, though the judgment of the court yesterday is respected, it is a judgment that I refuse to accept. I refuse to accept the judgment because I believe that it is bereft of substantial justice. However, the disappointment in the verdict of the court can never destroy my confidence in the judiciary.

Consequently, I have asked my lawyers to activate my constitutionally guaranteed rights of appeal to the higher court, which, in the instance, is the Supreme Court. It is my conviction that the electoral process in Nigeria should be devoid of untidy manipulations and that the outcome of every election should be a perfect reflection of the wishes of the electorate. I believe that such is the only way through which our democracy can have a manifest expression of its true meaning. Whether I prevail in this quest or not, the record of my effort in ensuring an order of credible elections in Nigeria shall remain for the future generations to evaluate.

On this note, I urge all my supporters to remain steadfast. I urge them to take solace in an immortal lesson I learned from my leader and mentor, the late Shehu Yar’Adua, that losing a battle is less important than losing the war. We might have lost a battle yesterday, but the war is well ahead of us. And I believe that with our hopes in God, we shall win the war of restoring confidence in our electoral system.

Excerpts from the text of a Press Conference addressed by Atiku Abubakar, GCON
Waziri Adamawa
Vice President of Nigeria (1999 – 2007) 2023 PDP Presidential Candidate on Thursday, September 7, 2023.

Imo: Pensioners Pray For Uzodimma’s Reelection As They Collect Palliatives

The Source

September 8, 2023

Distribution of palliatives to all segments of the society in Imo State has taken off smoothly, with retirees in particular joyfully collecting theirs and committing Governor Hope Uzodimma into God’s hands as he seeks reelection in November 11, 2023 because of the care the Governor shows to them.

Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Operations, Barr. Emeka Agbor who is also a member of the State Palliatives Sharing Committee had flagged off the distribution of the items at the ICAPs Centre ( Old Imo Newspapers Premises) on Egbu road and Government House Owerri respectively on Wednesday on behalf of the Committee, with different groups and communities showing up to pick their rice.

In appreciating the manner of distribution of the items, representatives of retirees such as Mrs. Grace Nwagbara (Nwangele Local Government Area), Mr. Remigius Irojiobi (Ihitte Uboma LGA) and Mr. Dennis Nwagbo (from Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education), all pensioners, thanked Governor Uzodimma for their benevolence, care and concern for the aged and the retirees in the State.

They said that this is the first time government was demonstrating care and concern about the retirees, noting that initially, they thought the idea of palliative was “one of those gimmicks.”

They thanked God and those who made it possible.

Mr. Irojiobi who spoke on behalf of other leaders assured that the items they collected on trust for their colleagues “will definitely reach the members they are meant for,” even as he noted that “things are actually turning around and getting better for the pensioners.”

The grateful pensioners however used the opportunity to assure Governor Uzodimma that come November 11, 2023 they will appreciate the gesture through the ballot box by voting massively for his return for a second tenure as Governor of Imo State.

Apart from leaders of the pensioners, groups from the various Local Government Areas of the State, the Navy, the Police, the Army, Civil Defence, among others, came to pick their share of the palliatives.

Agbor appealed to the leaders in whose hands the palliatives were entrusted to ensure they are distributed equitably, insisting that “efforts should be made to accommodate the vulnerable.”

“The palliatives are mostly meant for them.”

Agbor also thanked President Tinubu and Governor Uzodimma for coming up with the palliatives at this critical period in order “to ameliorate the hardship and difficulties orchestrated by the removal of the fuel subsidy.”

Agbor informed the leaders who came to take the allocations for their members that the Warehouses containing the palliatives at Egbu road would serve those from Owerri North, Mbaise, Ngor Okpala and other axis while the Warehouses inside the Government House will serve Local Government Areas such as Mbaitoli, Ikeduru, Ohaji/Egbema, Oguta, among other axis.

‘’To whom much is given much is expected,’’ Agbor said, noting, “more palliatives are coming and where you prove yourselves capable in the sharing of the present allocation you will be entrusted with the next phase.”

He enjoined them to be fair in the sharing and charged them to be “that person that will please God by doing the right thing’’ and by taking the items to the doorsteps of their challenged members.

Agbor reminded the audience that the DSS were monitoring the sharing at the 27 LGAs, hence they are expected to submit their reports on the sharing of the rice at the end of the day.

Jubilation As Uzodimma Commissions Ohaji-Egbema Ultra Modern General Hospital

The Source

September 8, 2023

The Umuokane community in Ohaji area of Imo State erupted in jubilation on Thursday when Governor Hope Uzodimma was at the place to commission a 42-bed brand new ultra modern General Hospital he built for them as part of his commitment to their wellbeing.

As the people – men, women and children – jubilated, they spared a thought over Governor Uzodimma whom they said has shown much love to them, vowing to pay him back with their block votes come November 11, 2023 when the governorship election will take place.

It was an occasion that also afforded the Governor the opportunity to congratulate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the verdict of the Presidential Election Petition Court in relation to his February 25 Presidential election that he won convincingly.

Governor Uzodimma said that the tribunal only reaffirmed the earlier victory of President Tinubu as announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission.

Addressing the community members of Umuokane, including their traditional rulers and key political leaders who turned up in their numbers to witness the commissing, Governor Uzodimma who described himself as one of them noted that the time to appreciate communities God has endowed with natural resources has come.

Governor Uzodimma told the community that his administration takes seriously the health and other infrastructure seriously, noting that he is a governor who believes in teaching the citizens how to catch fish instead of dashing them fish.

Governor Uzodimma declared that his government is determined to change the narrative in the oil producing areas of Imo State through prudent deployment of the 13% derivation meant for oil bearing communities as provided in the 1999 Constitution.

His words: “The hospital is fully paid for… Tomorrow (Friday), we are commissioning exactly the same in Oguta local government, and thereafter, we will also commission same in Oru East local government.

“We have decided to work with the Church – the medical unit of the Anglican Church.The Reverend Sisters and Medical Doctors from the Church will work here together with other doctors.”

The Governor reminded the people that the hospital was constructed and equipped by the Imo State Government through the Imo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ISOPADEC).

He also said that the hospital is well furnished with modern medical equipment.

Governor Uzodimma said: “This hospital is fully paid for from the 13% derivation allocation. In this hospital the only equipment that is not here are the equipment that are meant for tertiary hospitals and it is deliberate because I want tertiary hospitals to deal with only referrals.”

He added that the hospital has 24 hours power supply and encouraged the people to see to the protection of the facilities and human capital available to the hospital.

He however thanked the people of Ohaji -Egbema for embracing him as their son, assuring them that he will not “mismanage their resources,” but will rather “change the narrative.”

Governor Uzodimma added: “It is the plan of God to make the three local governments of Ohaji-Egbema, Oguta and Oru East oil and gas producing areas, so in the destiny of God, there is no room for envy.”

He regretted that over the years, since the creation of ISOPADEC, there has not been anything to show in the affected oil bearing communities for their God given natural resources apart from the pejorative appellation of the area as home of miscreants and promised to change the narrative.

Concerned that the Umuokane General Hospital may be a bit far from their neighbouring Egbema community, Governor Uzodimma promised to replicate the hospital in Ohaji at Egbema due to the vastness of the area.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of ISOPADEC Board, HRH Eze (Professor) Dele Amuzienwa Odigbo said that by building the new hospital, the Governor has “provided affordable health care facilities for both preventive and curative medical services to the host communities.”

Eze Odigbo commended Governor Uzodimma for his doggedness, pragmatism and creativity which he said “has yielded great results in the transformation of Imo State.”

“How many lions will be killed by a hunter before he will be called a killer of lions (Ogbuagu)?” “We all know that it is just one lion. Unlike the hunter, His Excellency Dist. Sen. Hope Uzodimma has done numerous projects for Imolites especially people of Ohaji Egbema,” he said, adding that the people will compensate the Governor with their votes in November 11 to ensure he continues with the good work he is doing in the State.

The Managing Director and CEO of ISOPADEC, Chief Charles Orie also poured encomia on Governor Uzodimma for backing and making the work of the management seamless.

Orie said that the hospital has reinforced the love the Ohaji community has for the Governor and his administration and appealed to his kit and kin to get ready to reelect Governor Uzodimma in November.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr Proper Success-Ohayagha in his remarks thanked Governor Uzodimma for investing hugely in the health sector in Imo State, particularly the primary health care, adding that most sicknesses that challenge the people have their origin at the local level.

Governor Uzodimma thereafter inspected the facilities in the hospital before being hosted to a town hall meeting with the Umuokane stakeholders at their community hall which he also promised to rebuild for the people.

“I Reject PEPC’s Judgement, I Have Instructed My Legal Team To Go To The Supreme Court” – Obi

The Source

September 8, 2023

Mr. Peter Gregory Obi, the Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party has rejected the judgement of the presidential election held on February 25, 2023, describing it as “not conterminous with justice.”

Obi who spoke today at Onitsha acknowledged the PEPC’s adherence to statutory time frames, expressed respect for the Court’s views and rulings but openly disagreed with the judgment’s rationale and final conclusions. He announced his intention, in his capacity as a presidential candidate and on behalf of the Labour Party, to immediately challenge this judgment through the appellate process, as permitted by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Highlighting the fact that the PEPC is not the ultimate authority in this matter, Obi emphasized that the responsibility now rests with the Supreme Court, which he expressed confidence in. He urged Nigerians to maintain their focus, steadfastness, and commitment to peaceful processes while emphasizing the importance of adhering to the rule of law. He made it clear that the matter has not yet reached its logical conclusion.

Obi revealed that his legal team has already received firm instructions to file an appeal against the PEPC’s decision. He expressed unwavering determination in his pursuit of justice, not only for himself but also for the multitude of supporters across the nation whose electoral mandate he said was unjustly thwarted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Obi underscored the pivotal role of solid national institutions and the public’s confidence in them for a thriving democracy. He pointed out that electoral litigations could be significantly reduced if INEC discharged its statutory functions transparently and fairly. However, when such bodies falter, as he said INEC did in this case, the judiciary becomes an imperative recourse.

In closing, Obi extended his gratitude to every Nigerian who has supported their cause and the campaign for a New Nigeria built on principles of fairness, equity, justice, the rule of law, peace, prosperity, inclusiveness, sustainable growth, and development. He specifically thanked his legal team, the Labour Party, the Obidient Family, and all those who steadfastly attended the court proceedings. His message concluded with a blessing for all Nigerians and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Again, LAHA Rejects Three Commissioner Nominees Sent By Governor Sanwo-Olu

Akinwale Kasali

September 7, 2023

By Akinwale Kasali

The Lagos State House of Assembly has confirmed 15 out of the Second Batch of 18 Commissioner- Nominees sent by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu recently.

Hon. Mojeed Fatai, Chief Whip and Chairman of the Screening Committee laid a report of the exercise before the House during Plenary presided over by the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, confirming that the lawmakers rejected Olalere Odusote, Samuel Egube, and Hon. Tolani Sule Akibu.

However, the House resolved to step down the confirmation of Hon. Tolani Sule Akibu for another day.

Commending the Screening Committee for carrying out the mandate, Obasa said the members did a thorough job screening the nominees.

His position was also supported by the lawmakers present at plenary.

Those confirmed include:

*Dr. Afolabi Abiodun Tajudeen

*Mr. Oluwaseun Oriyomi Osiyemi

*Prof. Akinola Emmanuel Abayomi

*Dr. Oluwarotimi Omotola *Wahab Fashola

*Mrs. Folashade Kaosarat *Ambrose-Medem

*Mrs. Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe

*Mrs. Bolaji Cécilia Dada

*Mrs. Barakat Akande Bakare

*Mr. Olugbenga Omotosho

*Mr. Mosopefoluwa George

*Dr. Yekini Nurudeen Agbaje

*Dr. Olumide Oluyinka

*Mr. Abayomi Samson Oluyomi

*Dr. Iyabode Oyeyemi Ayoola

*Hon. Sola Shakirudeen Giwa

Ondo Gov Akeredolu Returns

Ayodele Oni

September 7, 2023

By Ayodele Oni

Anxiety radiates in the air as news filters that Ondo state Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu is due to return to Nigeria any moment from now.

Members of the state executive council and political associates are keeping watch to hear the news of the return of the governor, after three months absence from the state.

Akeredolu had applied to the state assembly for a leave to enable him attend to his health challenges.

During his absence there were reports of his death while ranks of the state executive members divided as a result of power tussle.

It was gathered that the Governor will arrive Ibadan, Oyo State and stay at his residence for a few days before his return to Akure.

Anxious cabinet members and top politicians are expected to visit and brief him while in the Oyo state capital.

Already some Akeredolu’s cabinet members and aides have arrived Ibadan to welcome him.

Akeredolu began medical leave in June which was later extended indefinitely by the state House of Assembly.

He had transferred power to his Deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, in line with constitutional provisions.

Photographs and video of the Governor in a Germany hospital emerged when he celebrated his 67th birthday. In the video, the Governor was seen dancing alongside his wife and associates.

A viral picture of the Governor inside the aeroplane he boarded in Germany has surfaced online.

Meanwhile, Governor Akeredolu has congratulated President Bola Tinubu on the verdict of the Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal (PEPT), which upheld his victory in the February 25 Presidential Election.

The Governor, who spoke through his Chief Press Secretary, Richard Olatunde, described the tribunal’s judgement as a revalidation of the people’s mandate and the renewed hope agenda of President Tinubu’s administration.

“This judgement has again deepened our nation’s jurisprudence and solidified our commitment to democratic values.

“As true democrats, we must embrace the tents of democracy which also encompass post election litigations.

“Our struggle for service must also fuel our reverence for democratic values. The Presidential Election Petition Tribunal has dispensed Justice. Now is the time to come together and build our nation.

“The renewed hope drive of President Tinubu is anchored on assurance of a paradigm shift.

“The result of the February 25 Presidential poll, upheld by the Tribunal, represents the will of majority of Nigerians who voted massively for the APC.

“Our Judiciary has again lived up to expectations. It has reaffirmed our belief that it remains the last hope of the masses.

“We must collectively commend the pivotal role our Judiciary has played in enriching our democracy and upholding justice.

“Notwithstanding our days in court, we urge the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and the Labour Party Candidate, Mr Peter Obi to sheath their swords and join hands with the President to develop the country.

“The Tribunal verdict should be accepted in good faith by all lovers of democracy. Our commitment to advancing the national project must be built on national interest which prioritises the good of the people above personal victory.

“Since our collective vision is shaped by our passion for a prosperous nation, let us, therefore, embrace the will of the people and support the President in delivering on his Renewed Hope agenda.”

“Congratulatory Message To Tinubu Amounts To Validating Banditry” – Atiku

Ayodele Oni

September 7, 2023

By Ayodele Oni

Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, has said the statement credited to him congratulating President Bola Tinubu over Wednesday’s Court judgement, did not emanate from him.

The Presidential Candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) pointed out that there was no way he could have validated electoral banditry because doing so would have amounted to a rape on the conscience of Nigerians who have struggled for years to entrench electoral integrity.

He added that consent is essential to democratic mandate, adding that ruling people against their will undermines everything democracy stands for.

A statement by his Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, described it as fake news being orchestrated by those desperately looking for validation for the usurpation of the mandate of Nigerians.

“If their conscience is clear and they are convinced that their victory is valid, they don’t have to blackmail their political opponents into congratulating them through fake news.

“Why should a man be desperate for validation? Does truth require validation? Why should you issue a congratulatory statement and attribute it to Atiku if your conscience is not troubled by the electoral heist you have perpetrated.

“To confirm that the purported message is fake and pedestrian, it was addressed to the “President-elect.” Though we know it is a pyrrhic victory, is it not ridiculous to still address Bola Tinubu as “President-elect” five months after swearing-in?

“This struggle is not about Atiku; it’s about Nigeria and the future of our democracy. By allowing election riggers to get away with their misdeeds, our democracy will be in greater jeopardy.

Reacting to boast by the vice president, Kashim Shettima, Atiku declared that he was not going into retirement and will instead continue to be part of the struggle to deepen democracy in the country.

Atiku declared that he has nothing personal against President Tinubu and owes him no ill will whatsoever.

“Let me, however, make it very clear that this struggle is about principle and justice. He is not in this struggle because he hates Tinubu. He is in it to ensure that people who rigged elections are not allowed to get away with it.

“Injustice and rigging promote bitterness and division. No leader should be proud to lead angry and aggrieved citizens.”

FUTA Alumnus Set To Challenge World Record On Longest Speech

Ayodele Oni

September 7, 2023

By Ayodele Oni

Following the approval from Guinness World Records, (GWR), a former student of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, (FUTA) Christopher Bayode Olusa has decided to break the record of longest speech marathon.

Christopher Olusa, is set to break Ananta Ram’s Guinness World Record for the longest speech marathon of 90 hr and 2 min.

A Nepali, Ananta Ram is the current holder of the record after achieving the longest speech marathon of 90 hr and 2 min, in Kathmandu, Nepal from 27 to 31 August, 2018.

However, Olusa is attempting to set aside the record with a 120-hour (Five days) words to word speech.

While addressing newsmen at a press conference held at the NUJ Press Centre in Akure, Olusa said “the genesis of this remarkable endeavor was born from an unwavering commitment to inspire positive change in the society.

The FUTA Postgraduate student said he had sought and got the approval from GWR and the event is scheduled for between 11- 15 September 2023 in Akure the Ondo state capital.

The 24yr-old FUTA Alumnus, explained that the upcoming Speech Marathon is an event that embodies the very essence of transformation and inspiration.

He said he had gotten an approval from the GWR to carry out the exercise, noting that he is physically and mentally ready to beat the existing record.

“I am Christopher Olusa, and I stand before you today as a young Nigerian with an unwavering passion for change.

“As a proud alumnus of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, I have consistently strived to make a positive impact on society, as the owner of the #TalkWithTheDuke platform that has been a platform for advocacy, engagement and innovation.

“My journey has been one marked by dedication to the cause of change and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. It is with this same spirit that I bring you today’s announcement regarding the upcoming Speech Marathon, an event that embodies the very essence of transformation and inspiration.

“The genesis of this remarkable endeavor was born from an unwavering commitment to inspire positive change in our society. It is about transcending boundaries, shattering limits, and aspiring towards something extraordinary.

“I am overjoyed to announce that our unwavering dedication has borne fruit, as Guinness World Records has granted us their esteemed approval for what promises to be an unprecedented feat.

“Our Speech Marathon is not just another event, it is a testament to human determination and the unyielding power of words. Over the course of five days, we will embark on a journey of enlightenment, as I read speeches from inspirational figures spanning the annals of history.

“From past and present world leaders to influential individuals who have left an indelible mark on our world, I will draw wisdom and inspiration from their words”

“It is about transcending boundaries, shattering limits, and aspiring towards something extraordinary.”

He stressed that his journey has been one marked by dedication to the cause of change and the relentless pursuit of knowledge.

“My personal commitment to this endeavor extends beyond words. I am in the peak of physical fitness and mental readiness to undertake this monumental challenge.

“All funds raised during the marathon will be dedicated to the noble cause of training children with Aphasia, a brain disorder that affects speech and comprehension”.

“This initiative will be conducted under the banner of the #TalkWithTheDuke Foundation, reflecting our commitment to making a meaningful impact on those in need.

“Our theme, “Voices of Change: Inspiring Solutions for a better World,” resonates deeply with the essence of this marathon. It encapsulates our collective aspiration to inspire transformation, ignite hope, and foster positive change.”

PEPC: “I Am Going To The Supreme Court, I Am Disappointed With The Verdict” – Atiku

Ayodele Oni

September 7, 2023

By Ayodele Oni

Presidential Candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, said he sought redress in court over the outcome of last February’s election because of his belief in the Judiciary.

The former Vice President stated that in his political sojourn, he has been a great beneficiary of the judiciary, hence his believe in the arbiter of justice.

Addressing a press conference in Abuja on Thursday, in reaction to the decision of the Court to throw away his petition, Atiku declared that “My decision to go to Court is anchored in my belief that the Court is the sanctuary of justice. The journey of my political career, as you know, holds so much to the courage and fearless decisions of our judiciary.

“Indeed, I am no stranger to legal battles, and I can say that I have a fair idea of how the Court system works. All through my career as a politician, I have been a fighter, and I must say that I have found the judiciary as a worthy pillar to rest on in the pursuit of justice.

“As you already know, I approached the Court following the declaration by INEC that the APC and its candidate are the winners of the February 25, Presidential Election.

“The last Presidential Election in our country and the way it was managed by the Electoral Umpire, the Independent National Electoral Commission, leaves behind unenviable precedents, which I believe the Courts have a duty to redress.

“Our gains in ensuring transparent elections through the deployment of technology was heavily compromised by INEC in the way it managed the last presidential election, and I am afraid that the judgement of the Court as rendered by the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal yesterday, failed to restore confidence in our dreams of free and fair elections devoid of human manipulations.

“Like I did say at the beginning of this legal battle when I instructed my lawyers to file my petition challenging the outcome of the presidential election, my ultimate goal in this pursuit is to ensure that democracy is further strengthened through the principles and processes of fair hearing.

“Gentlemen of the press, I take great pains to tell you that the decision of the court of first instance on this matter utterly falls far short of that expectation.

“I am therefore here to tell you that, though the judgment of the court yesterday is respected, it is a judgment that I refuse to accept. I refuse to accept the judgment because I believe that it is bereft of substantial justice.

“However, the disappointment in the verdict of the court can never destroy my confidence in the judiciary.

“Consequently, I have asked my lawyers to activate my constitutionally guaranteed rights of appeal to the higher court, which, in the instance, is the Supreme Court.

“It is my conviction that the electoral process in Nigeria should be devoid of untidy manipulations and that the outcome of every election should be a perfect reflection of the wishes of the electorate.

“I believe that such is the only way through which our democracy can have a manifest expression of its true meaning. Whether I prevail in this quest or not, the record of my effort in ensuring an order of credible elections in Nigeria shall remain for the future generations to evaluate.”

PDP Rejects Presidential Election Petition Court Judgment

Adesina Soyooye

September 7, 2023

By Adesina Soyooye

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has rejected the judgement of the Presidential Election Petition Court which was delivered on Wednesday, September 6, 2023.

The Party and its candidate, Atiku Abubakar, had challenged the declaration of Bola Tinubu, Candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, as winner of the election by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

Atiku said Tinubu should not have been declared President as he was neither qualified to run, nor won the election.

They cited many issues why Tinubu should not have declared winner, including his alleged conviction in the USA and mass rigging.

But on Wednesday, the five-member Panel made up of Court of Appeal Judges, unanimously, dismissed the petition and all the issues it raised. Tinubu was affirmed as duly elected.

The petition by the Labour Party, LP, and its Candidate, Peter Obi, also suffered same fate.

But in a Press Statement issued on Wednesday, and signed by the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Debo Ologunagba, the Party said it “unequivocally reject the said judgement in its entirety.” The judgment is “against reason”, the statement added.

The full text of the statement reads:

“Few moments ago, the Presidential Election Petition Court (PEPC) delivered Judgment in the Petition filed by our Party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its Candidate, Atiku Abubakar against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the declaration of the APC and Senator Tinubu as Winner of the February 25, 2023 Presidential election by INEC.

“As a Party, we have had an initial review of the Judgment as delivered by the PEPC and we unequivocally reject the said Judgement in its entirety.

“The Judgement is against reason, against the facts and evidence presented in Court; against the relevant Electoral Laws, Guidelines and Regulations as well as the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended). Indeed, the Judgment is generous in technicalities and very short in delivering substantial justice in the matter.

“The PDP, as a law-abiding political Party, will with our lawyers, have a comprehensive review of the Judgment and decide on the next line of action within the ambit of the law.

“The PDP calls on Nigerians to remain at alert, calm and united as our Party continues to lead the charge to defend Democracy and ensure that the Will of the people as expressed in the February 25, 2023 Presidential election is respected and restored.”

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