Former Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki has responded to the Supreme Court’s affirmation of Monday Okpebholo’s election victory by declaring that he has left the matter in the hands of God for final judgment.
In a calm yet poignant statement issued on Thursday, Obaseki expressed disappointment in the court’s decision but emphasized his commitment to democratic institutions and the rule of law.
The Supreme Court had earlier upheld the ruling of the Court of Appeal, which confirmed Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the duly elected governor of Edo State.
Obaseki, a leading figure in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), maintained that his party’s candidate, Asue Ighodalo, had genuinely won the 2024 election. However, he acknowledged the authority of the judiciary and accepted the ruling with restraint.
“While we remain convinced that the people of Edo State made their choice known through the ballot in favor of the PDP and its candidate, we are bound by the Supreme Court’s final verdict,” Obaseki said. “We now leave the matter in the hands of God, who delivers the ultimate justice.”
The former governor praised supporters of the PDP for their resilience and peaceful conduct throughout the legal battle, urging them to remain hopeful and united.
“Our faith in democracy remains unshaken. Though we may not always agree with the outcomes, we must continue to build a society founded on justice, peace, and respect for democratic values,” he added.
The ruling effectively brings an end to the legal contest surrounding the contentious 2024 gubernatorial election. While it cements Okpebholo’s mandate, political observers say the PDP’s continued dissatisfaction reflects broader concerns over electoral credibility and judicial independence in Nigeria.
As reactions continue to pour in across party lines, Obaseki’s tone of statesmanship has drawn praise from some quarters, with analysts describing his message as “measured and mature” in the face of political defeat.
