By Promise Eze
The Nigerian Supreme Court has dismissed an appeal filed by the All Progressives Congress (APC) against the victory of the Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, in the July 16, 2022 gubernatorial election.
The APC had claimed that there was overvoting during the election, but a five-man panel of justices dismissed the appeal on Tuesday, saying it lacked merit and upheld Adeleke’s win at the Appeal Court.
Shortly after the verdict was announced, Governor Adeleke, who contested under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), expressed his gratitude to the people of Osun State for their support. “I describe this victory as one dedicated to the Almighty God and the people of Osun,” he said. “They stood by me to let me know that they love me and I love them back.”
The PDP also commended the verdict, saying it confirms the party’s popularity among Nigerians. In a tweet, the party congratulated Adeleke, the people of Osun State, and the entire PDP family. “This victory is a confirmation of our Party’s popularity in Nigeria and commitment to nation-building,” it said.
The verdict has been welcomed by supporters of Governor Adeleke and the PDP, who see it as a vindication of their support for the Governor. They believe that the verdict will give Adeleke the opportunity to continue his good works in the state.
Reacting to the verdict, one of Adeleke’s supporters, Mr. Olawale Babalola, said, “We are happy that the Supreme Court has upheld the victory of Governor Adeleke. This is a victory for the people of Osun State who voted for him. We believe that the Governor will use this opportunity to continue his good works in the state.”
The verdict is expected to bring to an end the legal tussle over the Osun State governorship election.
We dedicate today's victory to God. Our Governorship is an affirmation that a government of the people, by the people and for the people is possible. I express my heartfelt appreciation to great people of Osun state. On behalf of my family and party, I say thank you. pic.twitter.com/GuTzksj6WD
— Gov Ademola Adeleke (@AAdeleke_01) May 9, 2023
