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The Social Democratic Party (SDP) gubernatorial candidate in Kogi State, Murtala Ajaka, has rejected the Court of Appeal ruling that upheld Governor Usman Ododo’s victory in last year’s gubernatorial election in the state.
The Court of Appeal in Abuja earlier on Thursday upheld Ododo’s victory in the election held on November 11, 2023.
In a hearing on Thursday, the appeals court ruled on all four grounds of appeal against the appellants.
The court ruled that the SDP and its candidates failed to prove allegations of fraud in the election.
He added that the allegations of certificate forgery against the governor were a pre-election issue that should be resolved by the Federal High Court.
However, in a statement issued in Lokoja, the SDP candidate alleged that the verdict was influenced by manipulation.
Ajaka added that he would appeal to the appeals court at the Supreme Court.
He stressed that the journey to regain his mandate was not limited to the decision of the appeals court.
READ ALSO: Appeal Court Upholds Ododo Governor Election in Kogi
“We must remain relentless in our pursuit of justice. We must not be discouraged by setbacks or discouraged by temporary defeats. Our goal is justice and our resolve will not waver. We must unite and continue to support our legal teams as they navigate these complicated legal waters on our behalf.
“I want to assure you, our political followers, that victory is within reach. We are confident that truth will prevail, and justice will be done. We have full confidence in the Nigerian judicial system, and we are confident that the highest court will redress the injustice that has befallen us once again.
“We understand the frustration and anger that may arise from this situation, but using violence or any form of unlawful action is not the solution. We must continue to uphold the principles of democracy and fight for justice through legal channels.
“We have fought tirelessly for the rights and interests of the people of Kogi State and we will not allow this temporary setback to deter our mission.
“We understand that this decision may cause disappointment and frustration among our supporters, but we want to assure you that this setback will not stop our determination to use all legal means to regain our stolen mandate.”
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