Following the appellate court judgement of Friday, October 27, 2023, on the 2023 House of Representatives election appeal case for Ibarapa Central/North Federal Constituency, which affirmed the victory of Hon. (Dr.) Anthony Adebayo Adepoju, politically known as Ibarapakan, as the authentic winner of the February 25, 2023 House of Representatives election as declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Hon. (Dr.) Adepoju has described the ruling of the appellate court as no victor, no vanquished.
The lawmaker stated this while receiving the pleasant news of the verdict of the Appeal Court sitting in Lagos on Friday.
According to him, “The judgement is in the best interest of our democracy and much-cherished constituency; Ibarapa Central and Ibarapa North. It is a win-win situation for everyone, regardless of political affiliation.
“I recognise the support of our constituents before, during, and after the election, which gave us the mandate to serve.
“I equally appreciate the role played by you all in the just-concluded election petition matter, from tribunal to the appellate court.
“Your ability to stand firm in the face of adversity is pivotal to the verdict of the court, which just affirmed the mandate given to us on February 25 this year.
“Without your support, this wouldn’t have been possible.”
In his remarks, the lawmaker assured the people of the constituency that he would not renege on his electoral promises, which include but are not limited to employment opportunities, empowerment, complementing the efforts of the government at the state and local levels in ensuring qualitative education for the students in the constituency, infrastructural development, growth, impactful motions and bills that focus on common interests, and others.
“As the election petition matter challenging our victory in the last election was brought to a conclusion yesterday, I humbly call for the support of all stakeholders, traditional rulers, teachers, community developers, artisans, and members of different political parties in the constituency to come together as one in order to move not just our constituency forward but our nation, Nigeria.
Commenting on the judgement, Ibarapakan extended his appreciation to members of his legal team who worked tirelessly to make sure that justice prevailed and that the mandate given to him by the majority of the people of the constituency was not taken away through the back door.
The Deputy Chairman, House Committee on Federal Character, also expressed his gratitude to the election petitioner, who was his closest rival in the February 25 National Assembly election, Hon. (Dr.) Saubana Ajibola Muraina, for seeking justice in a respectful manner, stating that such an approach goes a long way in strengthening the Nigerian democracy and that his conduct has further demonstrated that Nigerian democracy is mature and the best form of government for the people of the country.
“It is normal to seek justice, as that is the only way to move our dear country forward peacefully. I plead with all not to see the approach taken by the former lawmaker to nurse any form of acrimony that can endanger the development of our beloved constituency, though the idea that almost every Nigerian election is being determined in courtroom is a subject of public importance that we must all come together to discuss and discourage.
“I respect the ex-lawmaker’s strength and resilience; we ask for his support in this representation so as to achieve true development for the people of the constituency, and I believe this is one important thing he will not hesitate to do. I wish him the very best in his future endeavours,” Ibarapakan said.
Expressing his gratitude to the Executive Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde, Hon. (Dr.) Adepoju said Governor Makinde’s support before and during the election petition matter was immesurable, adding that Gov. Makinde’s leadership of not leaving anyone behind in time of support was instrumental to the success recorded in court.
He appreciated the governor for making sure that the will of the people of the constituency prevailed in court and assured him of the support of the people of Ibarapa Central and North.
He, however, thanked the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at all levels and members of the party in Ibarapa Central and Ibarapa North for their unwavering support, promising that he would not let anyone down.
