By Praise Chinecherem
Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi has rejected the judgement of the presidential election held on February 25, 2023, describing it as not conterminous with justice.
He acknowledged the PEPC’s adherence to statutory time frames, as well as respect for the Court’s views and rulings, but however disagreed with the judgment’s rationale and final conclusions.
Addressing reporters on Thursday in Onitsha, Anambra State, Obi vowed to challenge the judgement at the Supreme Court, which he expressed confidence in.
He said, “In my capacity as a presidential candidate and on behalf of the Labour Party, I’ll immediately challenge this judgment through the appellate process, as permitted by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“The PEPC is not the ultimate authority in the matter; the responsibility rested with the Supreme Court.”
While urging Nigerians to maintain focus, steadfastness, and commitment to peaceful processes, the LP candidate underscored the importance of adhering to rule of law, adding that, “the matter has not yet reached its logical conclusion.”
“I appreciate every Nigerian who has supported our cause and the campaign for a New Nigeria built on principles of fairness, equity, justice, the rule of law, peace, prosperity, inclusiveness, sustainable growth, and development.
“I specifically thank our legal team, the Labour Party, the Obidient Family, and all those who steadfastly attended the court proceedings. May God bless all Nigerians and the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.
Obi however revealed that his legal team had already received firm instructions to file an appeal against the PEPC’s decision.
He expressed unwavering determination in his pursuit of justice, not only for himself but also for the multitude of supporters across the nation whose electoral mandate he said was unjustly thwarted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Obi underscored the pivotal role of solid national institutions and the public’s confidence in them for a thriving democracy.
He pointed out that electoral litigations could be significantly reduced if INEC discharged its statutory functions transparently and fairly. However, when such bodies falter, as he said INEC did in this case, the judiciary becomes an imperative recourse.
