Hon. Adekunle Akinlade, the Deputy Governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State, has declared the party’s intention to challenge the outcome of the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal. Akinlade, speaking through his media aide, Adelani Azeez, expressed the party’s anticipation of the tribunal’s ruling and urged PDP members to remain composed.
Previously, the tribunal dismissed the petition filed by Adebutu and the PDP against Governor Dapo Abiodun’s election, citing its lack of merit.
In response to the judgment, Akinlade emphasized several points. He reminded everyone that the Tribunal is the initial court of adjudication, highlighted the determination of their leadership, and emphasized the significance of time.
Akinlade, who previously contested against the incumbent governor in 2019, quoted the late Obafemi Awolowo, stating, “What matters is not how many times a person falls or fails, but their ability to rise, learn from their mistakes, and move forward.”
While advising PDP supporters and the people of Ogun State to view the judgment as a temporary setback, Akinlade recalled past challenges they had faced. He recounted how they overcame obstacles and legal battles to participate in the 2023 elections.
He also addressed the issue of alleged vote buying, asserting that it was a distraction, and the tribunal had ruled in their favor on this matter.
Regarding their plans to appeal the judgment, he assured their supporters and the people of Ogun State that they would use every available resource to correct what they perceive as an injustice in the interest of the state.