Sen Fatimat Rasaki Hails Supreme Court Judgment Confirming Oyebanji’s Election
A former First Lady of Lagos State, Senator Fatimat Raji Rasaki, has congratulated Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, on the Supreme Court judgment affirming him as the validly elected governor of the state, urging all stakeholders to unite in the interest of peace and development.
Rasaki, a former senator who represented Ekiti Central Senatorial District, described the apex court’s verdict as “a victory for democracy, the rule of law, and the collective aspirations of the people of Ekiti State.”
In a congratulatory message made available in Ado Ekiti on Sunday, she said the judgment had brought an end to all legal disputes over the governorship election.
“The apex court’s decision has finally laid to rest all legal uncertainties surrounding the matter, thereby providing the governor with the opportunity to remain fully focused on delivering the dividends of democracy to the good people of Ekiti State,” she stated.
Oyebanji’s victory at the June 20 governorship election had been challenged by the candidate of the African Democratic Congress, Abimbola Olawumi, who approached the Election Petition Tribunal seeking to nullify the outcome of the poll.
The tribunal dismissed the petition, a decision later upheld by the Court of Appeal. In a unanimous judgment delivered on Friday, the Supreme Court affirmed the earlier decisions, bringing the legal challenge to an end.
Reacting to the verdict, Rasaki called on political leaders, traditional rulers, youth groups and residents of the state, irrespective of political affiliation, to accept the judgment in good faith and support the governor.
She added, “The Supreme Court’s judgment is not only a legal victory, but also an opportunity for all sons and daughters of Ekiti State to close ranks and work together for the continued growth and prosperity of our dear state. This is the time to place the interest of Ekiti above partisan considerations.”
The former lawmaker also urged candidates of other political parties who participated in the election to support the administration rather than pursue actions capable of disrupting the prevailing peace in the state.
She reaffirmed her commitment to supporting policies and programmes that would improve the welfare of the people, strengthen democratic institutions and accelerate socio-economic development in Ekiti State.
Rasaki further praised Oyebanji for his “calm disposition, steadfast leadership, and unwavering commitment throughout the legal process,” noting that his maturity and dedication to governance had continued to earn him the confidence and admiration of stakeholders.
She prayed for God’s wisdom, strength and guidance for the governor as he continued to lead the state, expressing confidence that Ekiti would record greater achievements under his leadership.
