Former Osun Governor Gboyega Oyetola has accepted the ruling of the Supreme Court, which upheld the election of Senator Ademola Adeleke as Governor of the State.
The apex court on Tuesday affirmed Adeleke, who was the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the July 16, 2022, gubernatorial election, as the Osun Governor.
The five-member panel of the Supreme Court led by Justice John Okoro upheld the ruling of the Court of Appeal, which affirmed Adeleke as governor of Osun state.
In the judgement read by Justice Emmanuel Agim, the apex court held that Oyetola failed to adduce enough evidence to prove his allegation of overvoting in the July 16, 2022 governorship poll.
In a statement he personally signed, Oyetola said he accepted the Apex Court’s verdict despite his party’s and supporters’ disapproval for the sake of peace and development.
He said: “We strongly think we presented a good case before the Supreme Court, but the Court thought otherwise and has rendered its judgement. While the outcome is against our wish and that of our party members and supporters, we are all bound to accept it as law-abiding citizens.
“To our members and supporters across the State, I urge you all to accept the verdict of the Court and move on. The present situation is a win-win for us. It’s a win-loss. While we lost Osun technically, we gained Nigeria.”
Oyetola advised members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and sympathisers not to feel sad and disappointed about the ruling of the Court.
The former governor encouraged them to brace up for the tasks ahead of the party.
He also complimented the party’s leadership at the State and national levels for their commitment and support throughout the period of the legal fight.
Oyetola said: “I remain committed to the growth and development of Osun. I shall thus continue to collaborate with well-meaning Osun citizens, groups, and institutions to enhance our beautiful State. I also encourage all Osun residents to uphold the Omoluabi ethos and our forebears’ dreams for the State, regardless of party affiliation.
“To the Osun Governor, Senator Ademola Nurudeen Jackson Adeleke, I congratulate you on your Supreme Court victory. While I pray for your tenure to be prosperous for our people and the State, I urge you to focus on good governance.
“Politics aside, the time has come to let you know that the interest of the masses must be most paramount without any restriction or discrimination based on political persuasion, creed, or religion.” We must put aside our differences to advance our great State. Osun people must be protected regardless of religion or politics. Peace and progress in your tenure.”
