THE Abuja division of the Court of Appeal yesterday upheld Senator Isah Jibrin’s election, validating his victory after an earlier tribunal verdict annulled his win, ordering a rerun in some polling units.
Delivering the judgment, the presiding Judge described the earlier tribunal verdict as a somersault of the judicial process -akin to putting the cart before the horse.
Senator Jibrin, representing Kogi East Senatorial District, lauded the court’s decision as a true reflection of the overwhelming support he received from the people of Kogi East during the election.
Expressing gratitude for the court’s sound and firm judgment, Senator Jibrin emphasized that the ruling reaffirms the mandate granted to him by his constituents. “This judgment is a revalidation of my mandate given to me by my people,” he remarked.
He further emphasized the need to focus on consolidating his mandate and serving the people. “With the court struggles behind us, it’s time to concentrate on the business of lawmaking and ensuring excellent and equitable representation for the people,” the senator stated.
He extended his felicitations to his competitor, Dr Victor Adoji of the People’s Democratic Party, recognizing the spirited contest in the elections. He highlighted the importance of moving past election animosities and rebuilding bridges of camaraderie, stressing the need to reconnect the longstanding friendship that predates the electoral competition.
Eighteen-Eleven Media