Former chief press secretary to then governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State, John Mayaki, has urged the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate in the September 21 governorship election in the state, Asue Ighodalo to concede defeat and join hands with the government to build the state.
Mayaki said although he did not support the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its candidate, Monday Okpebholo, during the election, he has decided to move on and support the good initiatives by Governor Okpebholo to develop the state for the benefit of all.
He described the judgment of the election tribunal, which affirmed Okpebholo’s election, as fair and impartial, noting that it would further strengthen good governance in Edo State.
Mayaki, who is the convener of the Coalition for Good Governance and Economic Justice in Africa, said: “Now that the governor’s victory has been reaffirmed, he can concentrate fully on the task of developing the state.”
He stressed the importance of unity in governance, noting that development should be the primary focus of all political stakeholders and leaders.
Mayaki agreed that the PDP and Ighodalo have the right to appeal the tribunal’s decision, but expressed concern over the statement by the United States Mission indicating that it would be monitoring the appeal process.
He said: “I do not think the foreign mission has any role to play in our Judiciary or local politics. There are limits to everything.”
Mayaki urged the PDP not to be swayed by international opinions on Nigeria’s internal political processes, adding that the judiciary is guided by evidence and law, not sentiments or external influence.
He said, “We must stop blaming the judiciary simply because outcomes don’t favor us. Our institutions must be protected, not undermined. If we destroy them today, we will need them tomorrow,” he said.
Mayaki commended the media for the accurate and balanced coverage of the tribunal’s proceedings, which he said reaffirmed Okpebholo’s victory I’m the election.
Credit- Nation
