Appeal Court Upholds Governor Alex Otti’s Election Victory in Abia State

In a unanimous decision on Saturday, the Appeal Court in Lagos State affirmed the victory of Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, stating that it adhered to the provisions of the Electoral Act. The court dismissed appeals from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) along with their respective governorship candidates, emphasizing that the petitions lacked merit and resembled “a comedy skit brought to a democratic setting.”

The appellate court clarified that issues related to political party membership are pre-election matters falling within the jurisdiction of the political party. It asserted that Otti, having joined the Labour Party, won its primary election, and submitted his name to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), was qualified to contest.

Addressing the concerns raised by the PDP regarding the Bimodial Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), the appeal court noted the appellants’ failure to demonstrate a clear link between their documentary evidence and specific aspects of the case.

The court’s judgment triggered celebrations among Governor Otti’s supporters in various parts of the state.

PDP Calls for Calm

Meanwhile, the PDP responded to the judgment in a statement signed by the party’s acting State Publicity Secretary, Abraham Amah. The party advised its members to remain steadfast, calm, peaceful, and law-abiding.

The statement reads, “Following the judgment of the Appeal Court, the Abia PDP assures its members, numerous supporters across party lines, and the good people of Abia State to remain calm as the Party leadership is meeting with the governorship candidate, his running mate, and the legal team to review the judgment and determine the next course of action.”

Confidence in the Judiciary

The Abia PDP reiterated its confidence in the Judiciary as the “last hope of the common man” and a crucial pillar of democracy. It called on its members, supporters, sympathizers, and the people of Abia State to remain steadfast, law-abiding, and trust in God and the Judiciary while exploring available options.

The statement also urged the citizens affected by what it referred to as “bad policies of Alex Otti” to recognize that the Party would not abandon them.