- Safiu Kehinde
The Supreme Court has, today, affirmed the victory of the All Progressive Congress’ (APC) Imo State gubernatorial candidate, Hope Uzodinma, over Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) Samuel Anyanwu at the 2023 Imo Governorship election.
The final verdict on legal battle over the election was passed by a five-man panel presided over by Justice Garba Lawal, declaring Uzodinma as the duly elected governor of Imo state.
At the conclusion of the 2023 governorship election, Anyanwu had challenged the poll results at the election tribunal.
Despite losing at the tribunal, the PDP’s gubernatorial candidate took the case to the Court of Appeal where he again lost to Uzodinma.
His legal tussle would, however, come to an end today as the Supreme Court dismissed his appeal, reaffirming Uzodinma’s victory at the election.
Reacting to the court’s verdict, Uzodinma took to his X handle, dedicating his victory to Imo people while calling for the support of his opponents at the election in running the affairs of the state.
“A few hours ago, the Supreme Court confirmed me as the duly elected Governor of Imo State, arising from the November 11th, 2023 governorship election.
“It is, therefore, with a heart full of gratitude that I thank God Almighty for granting me another victory after I had also emerged victorious at the Tribunal and the Court of Appeal
“I express my gratitude to the Supreme Court for upholding the law despite the barrage of blackmail and intimidation by those who wanted sentiments to obfuscate justice.
“When Imo people overwhelmingly reelected me last year as their governor, it was simply based on my sterling performance, which remains unprecedented in the modern history of the state.
“During my second tenure inauguration, I pledged to serve them with renewed vigour, with honesty and transparency and accountability and with the fear of God.
“Today, with this Supreme Court victory, which I dedicate to all Imo people, irrespective of political or religious affiliation, I rededicate myself to the service of the good people of Imo state.
“To my brothers who contested with me during the election, I reinvite them to join me in the task of reinventing Imo to the state of our shared dreams.
“My doors will continue to remain open to all Imo people genuinely committed to the betterment of our society.
“Now that all issues pertaining to the election have been resolved, let us all work for the peace and progress of our dear State.” He wrote.