Jimoh Ibrahim Kicks As Inec Recognises Jegede As Pdp Candidate
SAN FRANCISCO, November 23, (THEWILL) – The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has struck out Jimoh Ibrahim's name off its list and replaced it with Eyitayo Jegede as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candiate for Saturday's governorship election.
This was disclosed in a statement by INEC Secretary, Augusta Ogakwu, following yesterday's Court of Appeal judgment which favoured Jegede.
“In compliance with the judgment delivered today Wednesday, 23rd November 2016 by the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) hereby declares that Mr. Eyitayo Jegede (SAN) is now the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the Ondo State Governorship election scheduled for Saturday, 26th November, 2016 ,” the statement read.
“It will be recalled that in compliance with the Order given by the Federal High Court, Abuja Division on Friday 14th Octoer, 2016 (re-affirmed on 27th October, 2016), the Commission recognized Mr. Jimoh Ibrahim as the PDP candidate for the Governorship election. However, with today's judgment by the Court of Appeal, the Commission hereby recognizes Mr. Jegede as the candidate of the PDP for the said election.
“The Commission wishes to appeal to the good people of Ondo State to come out and exercise their franchise on the Election Day in a peaceful manner. All the political parties and their candidate participating in the election are also enjoined to play by the rules and cooperate with the Commission to ensure the smooth conduct of the election.”
However, Ibrahim has faulted the Court of Appeal verdict which nullified his candidacy describing the judgment as 'one day ruling', adding that the Supreme Court would sit on the case on Thursday .
“I have read the decision of the Court of Appeal delivered today (yesterday) without a consequential order. The ruling failed to specifically say that my name should be substituted by INEC,” he said.
“Since there is no consequential order directing INEC to do so, the judgement is therefore not binding on me and INEC cannot remove my name and as such I remain PDP candidate for Saturday's election.
“But we are optimistic that we have nothing to lose as the Supreme Court sits on same case tomorrow . We shall get justice at the Supreme Court and if PDP wins Saturday's election, we shall have our four-year mandate to rule Ondo State
“Let me advice the good people of Ondo State and my supporters nationwide not to abuse anyone or fight over this one day ruling.
“Mimiko will not succeed himself with Jegede. This is too sure as we continue with our work and remain in our great part, PDP. I love the great people of Ondo State and I thank you all for continuous support.”
Story by Oputah David