By Ifeizu Joe
Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in the last general elections, Mr. Peter Obi, has rejected the judgement of the presidential Election Petition Court read on Wednesday.
Obi described the judgement as conterminous with justice, insisting that he will exhaust every legal process available to him.
Speaking in a press briefing in Onitsha, Anambra State on Thursday, Obi disagreed with the judgement, but praised the panel for delivering their judgement in the stipulated time frame.
“In my capacity as a presidential candidate and on behalf of the Labour Party, we will 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 this matter, the responsibility now rests with the Supreme Court, which I have confidence in.
“I urge Nigerians to maintain their focus, steadfastness, and commitment to peaceful processes. This matter has not yet reached its logical conclusion.”
Obi revealed that his legal team has 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.
He extended his gratitude to every Nigerian who has supported the 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.
He specifically thanked his legal team, the Labour Party, the Obidient Family, and all those who steadfastly attended the court proceedings. His message concluded with a blessing for all Nigerians and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“I will exhaust the process before I can think otherwise.
“I respect the process. I’m a process person, and what we are going through is what will unite us. You can not use a wrong premise to make things.”
