By Seyi Babalola
Alhaji Murtala Yakubu Ajaka, the Social Democratic Party’s (SDP) candidate in the Kogi State gubernatorial election on November 11, 2023, has said that he will retrieve what he calls a stolen mandate before the Supreme Court.
Ajaka said this in a statement on Thursday, shortly after the Court of Appeal in Abuja affirmed Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo’s win as Kogi State’s legitimately elected governor.
The statement reads in part: ” In light of today’s verdict, we want to state that we acknowledge and respect the decision of the Court of Appeal. However, we strongly believe that some irregularities and manipulations influenced the outcome of this petition.
“We have tirelessly fought for the rights and interests of the people of Kogi State, and we will not let this temporary setback deter us from our mission. We understand that this decision may have brought about feelings of 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 reclaim our stolen mandate.
“I call on all our supporters to remain calm and peaceful in the face of this disappointment and injustice. We understand the frustration and anger that may arise from this situation, but resorting to violence or any form of unlawful behaviour is not the solution. We must continue to uphold the principles of democracy and fight for justice through legal means.
“I want to extend my gratitude and appreciation to our formidable legal team, who have worked diligently and tirelessly throughout this legal battle. Their brilliance, dedication, and unwavering commitment to justice have been evident at every step of the way, not minding the disappointing outcome so far.
“I commend them for their efforts and assure you that they will 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. Remember that 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.
“Now more than ever, we must remain relentless in our pursuit of justice. We cannot afford to be deterred by setbacks or disheartened by temporary defeats. Our cause is just, and our determination will not waver. We must stand united and continue to support our legal team as they navigate these complex legal waters on our behalf.
“I want to assure you, our political followers, that victory is within our grasp. We firmly believe that the truth will prevail, and justice will be served. We have full faith in the Nigerian judicial system, and we are confident that the apex court will rectify the injustices that have been inflicted upon us once again.
“In the coming weeks, we will be working tirelessly to prepare our case for the apex court. We will leave no stone unturned, and no avenue unexplored in our quest for justice. We understand the weight of responsibility that has been placed upon our shoulders, and we are prepared to carry it with unwavering dedication and resilience.”
The SDP governorship candidate called on all his political followers and citizens of Kogi State to remain steadfast and resolute.
“Let us use this setback as fuel to propel us forward, to ignite a fire within us that will burn even brighter. Our stolen mandate will be reclaimed, and the will of the people will prevail.
“Together, we shall overcome this temporary setback and 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.
