The candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC), in the September 19, 2020 governorship election in Edo State, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, on Monday, congratulated the winner of the election, Governor Godwin Obaseki of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
In a letter he addressed to the current Governor, Obaseki, he, also conceded defeat, having failed at every avenue to upturn the decision of the election petition tribunal, at the Appeal Court, and finally at the Supreme Court.
He appealed the governor, to kindly consider the case of the 14 lawmakers-elect who absconded from the House and refused to be sworn-in, following a disagreement over who should be elected Speaker.
He urged the Governor to intervene in the issue of elected Local Government Chairmen, Vice-chairmen, Councilors and Supervisory Councillors, who were suspended and removed from office.
The letter reads:
“Your Excellency, congratulations.
“Last Friday’s judgement of the Supreme Court, puts an end to the series of litigations we had over last year’s governorship elections.
“For the records, Your Excellency, your supporters had instituted thirteen (13) different pre-election cases against my deputy and I; all seeking to disqualify us from participating in the election. On our part, our party, the APC had only one case against Your Excellency and your party.
“We also deliberately did not go to the Elections Tribunal, not because we did not have issues but because we felt it was better to allow you face the job at hand, more so as our party at the National level had congratulated you.
“We are happy that all these cases have come to an end. Now that it is all over, please accept my congratulations.
“Having said that, I want to appeal to you to kindly consider the pertinent issues of the 14 constituencies, including the two in your local government – Oredo and the two in your deputy’s local government – Etsako West, that are presently without representation at the Edo State Assembly.
“Once again, I congratulate Your Excellency and I wish you well.”
