The Court of Appeal, Lagos Division, has affirmed the victory of Adedeji Stanley Olajide Odidi-Omo, a member of the House of Representatives, representing the Ibadan Southwest/Northwest Federal Constituency of Oyo State.
The tribunal had in a judgement in August affirmed Stanley Olajide Odidi-Omo as authentic winner of the election.
The Chairman of the Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Ibadan, Justice Sobere Biambo who delivered the lead judgement which was unanimously adopted by other Justices: Z.A. Zadat and Shaffau Lada Yusuff dismissed Fijabi’s petition with N1M cost to each of the respondents.
Not satisfied with the Tribunal verdict, the APC candidate approached the Appellate court to upturn the Tribunal verdict, the Court of Appeal dismissed the appeals filed by ex-federal lawmaker, Saheed Akinade Fijabi of All Progressives Congress (APC) against Olajije for lack of merit.
Stanley Olajide, chairman of the House Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, won the 25 February election by defeating Fijabi and others at the polls.
In his reaction after the appeal court judgement, he said: “I thank God Almighty that today, 10th of November 2023, the Court of Appeal, Ikoyi, Lagos, headed by Barrister Justice Bassi upheld my victory in the February 25th, 2023 Federal House of Representatives election for IBNW/IBSW Federal Constituency by dismissing the opposition’s claims.
“The people’s mandate is sure, secure, and strong. Its victory at last for the people of IBNW/IBSW Federal Constituency as the appeal court has vindicated their voice and choice.
“I am most grateful to the Almighty Allah for his benevolence, my heartfelt appreciation goes to my ever-supportive and kind leader The Executive Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency, Engr Seyi Makinde, to all party leaders and party faithful, my ever-supportive constituents and my family for the encouragement and prayers. I also want to appreciate the Judiciary for their unbiased hearing and judgment.
“This has further strengthened my resolve to serve you with all of my heart and strength and ensure we all enjoy the very best dividends of democracy,” Odidi Omo stated.
