Ex-Lagos First Lady hails Supreme Court verdict affirming Oyebanji’s election

Former Lagos State First Lady and ex-senator, Fatimat Raji Rasaki, has congratulated Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji following the Supreme Court judgment affirming his election. She also called on political leaders, traditional rulers, youths and residents of the state to put political differences aside and work together for peace and development after the legal battle came to an end.

Rasaki, who previously represented Ekiti Central Senatorial District in the Senate, described the Supreme Court’s decision as one that finally settled every legal dispute surrounding the governorship election. She said the ruling gives Governor Oyebanji the chance to focus fully on governing the state and delivering projects and services to the people without further distractions.

The governor’s victory in the June 20 governorship election had been challenged by the African Democratic Congress candidate, Abimbola Olawumi, who asked the Election Petition Tribunal to cancel the election result. However, the tribunal dismissed the petition, and the Court of Appeal later upheld that decision. In a unanimous judgment delivered on Friday, the Supreme Court also affirmed Oyebanji’s election, bringing the legal challenge to a close.

Following the verdict, Rasaki urged all political stakeholders across Ekiti State to accept the judgment in good faith and support the governor’s administration. She said the ruling offers an opportunity for everyone in the state to unite and place the interests of Ekiti above party politics so that development can continue without interruption.

She also appealed to candidates of other political parties who took part in the election to cooperate with the government instead of engaging in actions that could disturb the peaceful atmosphere in the state. According to her, unity among political actors is necessary for the continued growth and progress of Ekiti.

The former lawmaker also restated her commitment to supporting programmes and policies that improve the lives of residents, strengthen democratic institutions and promote economic development across the state. She added that Governor Oyebanji remained calm throughout the court process and continued to focus on governance despite the legal challenge.

Rasaki further prayed for wisdom, strength and good health for the governor as he continues to lead the state. She expressed confidence that Ekiti would record more progress under his administration now that the legal dispute over the governorship election has been finally resolved.