After Usman Ododo’s election as Kogi State Governor was upheld by the Kogi State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, Murtala Ajaka, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate, is not backing down. He insists this fight is far from over.
Shortly after the tribunal’s decision on Monday, Ajaka declared he’s ready to continue the battle. He firmly believes his opponent might have won this round, but the war is still on.
The three-member tribunal, led by Justice Ado Birnin-Kudu, ruled that the SDP and Ajaka failed to prove their allegations against Ododo. They stated the election complied substantially with the Electoral Act.
But Ajaka disagrees. He is confident justice will prevail in the end. “Today, I stand before you with a heavy heart but a burning optimism. Our petition at the tribunal did not succeed. It’s a setback, yes, but not the end. This is just another chapter in our fight for justice, truth, and the rights of our people.”
He praised his legal team, highlighting their hard work in proving overvoting. Despite the tribunal acknowledging the evidence, the case was dismissed. Ajaka believes the judgment will not hold up over time.
“We may have lost this battle, but the war is far from over. Our stolen mandate will not be silenced. We will rise stronger and more determined. We must remain hopeful and relentless in our pursuit of justice.”
Ajaka emphasized the reasons behind their political journey: dreams of a better Kogi, a fair society, and progress for the state. “Our fight isn’t just about winning an election; it’s about standing up for what is right and just. Our opponents may have won this round, but they haven’t won the war. We will fight until justice prevails and our mandate is restored.”
He called on his supporters to stay united and strong, despite the challenges. “Losing at the tribunal doesn’t make us losers; it makes us fighters. We faced violence and intimidation during the election, but we weren’t stopped then, and we won’t be stopped now. Our spirit is unbreakable.”
Ajaka urged his fellow Kogites to remember the bigger picture and the opportunity to make a difference. “History is filled with stories of triumph against all odds. We are the authors of our own destiny. Our determination and relentless pursuit of justice will guide us.”
In closing, he reminded his supporters that they are not alone. “The people who believe in us are counting on us. Let’s rise above this setback and reclaim our stolen mandate together.”
“Thank you, and let’s move forward with hope, courage, and unwavering determination. We will win together.”
