Adebutu Rejects Ogun Tribunal Verdict, Vows To Appeal

Ladi Adebutu, the Governorship Candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State, has unequivocally rejected the verdict of the election tribunal, which dismissed his petition challenging the election of Governor Dapo Abiodun. Adebutu has vowed to appeal this decision, labeling it as a disheartening threat to democracy.

The lengthy 11-hour judgment delivered by the tribunal on Saturday ultimately deemed Adebutu’s petition as lacking in merit. Previously, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared Governor Abiodun as the winner of the election with 276,298 votes, while Adebutu secured 262,383 votes. Biyi Otegbeye of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) trailed behind with 94,754 votes.

However, the PDP and Adebutu had lodged a petition (marked EPT/OG/GOV/03/2023) with the tribunal, alleging INEC’s non-compliance with the Electoral Act and corrupt practices during the election. They further claimed that over 99 polling units experienced disruptions by thugs, resulting in the disenfranchisement of over 40,000 voters.

Adebutu had sought a court order declaring him as the rightful winner of the election and requested a fresh election in 99 polling units across 16 Local Government Areas where voting was either not held or canceled due to disruptions and over-voting.

In a statement released through his spokesman, Afolabi Orekoya, Adebutu expressed deep concern that the tribunal’s judgment focused on “funny technicalities” and failed to consider the substantial merits and evidence presented during the trial. He emphasized his commitment to democracy, transparency, and the rule of law, pledging to exhaust all available legal avenues to uphold the people’s will, ensure justice prevails, and reclaim the mandate.

Adebutu criticized the tribunal’s decision, stating that they had submitted substantial evidence establishing non-compliance, voter harassment, intimidation, and other electoral malpractices. He cited certified documents from INEC to support their claims.

Despite the setback, Adebutu assured the people of Ogun State that he and his supporters would not be deterred. He thanked his loyal supporters for their unwavering faith and resilience, urging them to remain steadfast as they continue their legal battle in the appellate courts, firmly believing that truth and justice will ultimately prevail.