The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) plans to appeal Thursday’s Appeal Court ruling that reinstated All Progressives Congress (APC) governor of Nasarawa State Abdullahi Sule’s term in office, to the Supreme Court.
Nasarawa State PDP chairman Francis Enokela Orogu released a statement on Thursday outlining the next steps for his party.
The tribunal’s decision to proclaim PDP candidate David Ombugadu the winner of the governorship election held on March 18 was overturned, according to DAILY POST.
Orogu, rejecting the Appeal Court ruling, termed it as a temporary setback.
He reassured party members that their mandate would be restored by the highest court in the land.
The statement reads in part: “After careful consideration and consultation with our legal team, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Nasarawa State expresses profound disagreement with the judgement of the Court of Appeal that invalidated the decision of the Election Petition Tribunal, which sacked Governor A.A. Sule and declared our candidate, Dr. David Ombugadu, as the duly elected governor.
While we have the utmost respect for the judicial system and the rule of law, we find the Court of Appeal’s ruling to be at odds with the evidence given at the tribunal hearing. Our legal team has uncovered strong grounds for appeal that we believe require a reconsideration of the verdict by the Supreme Court.
We intend to seek a full and fair review of the Court of Appeal’s decision by filing an appeal with the Supreme Court. We believe in the judicial system and hold out hope that fairness will ultimately win out.
The People’s Democratic Party in Nasarawa State is dedicated to protecting the integrity of the electoral process and giving voice to the will of the people. The election results as initially established by the electoral tribunal remain our firm belief and are an accurate expression of the will of the people in Nasarawa State.
“We urge our throngs of followers, Party members, and the general public to keep their cool and continue to have faith in our wonderful country’s democratic institutions and legal system. We appreciate the patience and support of our members as we wait for the appeals court of our great country, Nigeria, to render a ruling. We ask that you see this ruling as a temporary setback and continue to support us.
“Patience and fortitude are necessary in the pursuit of justice. When it comes to democracy and seeking justice for the people, the PDP in Nasarawa State is unwavering in its resolve.
Mismob Media