Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has expressed relief following the Supreme Court’s dismissal of an appeal challenging his victory in the state’s gubernatorial election.
News About Nigeria reported that the court rejected the appeal filed by the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Tonye Cole, who asked the court to sack Fubara.
In a unanimous decision, the five-man panel of the Supreme Court, led by Justice Ibrahim Saulawa, held that Cole failed to prove his claims of non-compliance with the Electoral Act and irregularities during the election.
Cole also alleged that Fubara did not resign from his previous position as required by law before contesting the election.
The Supreme Court’s ruling affirmed the decisions of both the election tribunal and the Court of Appeal, which had earlier dismissed Cole’s case for lacking merit.
In response to the judgement, Governor Fubara expressed gratitude for the victory, acknowledging that the legal battles had posed distractions over the past eight months.
“It is important for us to note that we need this victory to consolidate the purpose of governance. Prior, we have had a few distractions here and there.
“And the good news that came to us this morning is a refreshing strength that will encourage us to continue the good works in governance.”
Fubara thanked God, President Bola Tinubu, and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for their support and guidance during the internal crisis and litigation against his election.
He called for unity among all stakeholders, irrespective of party affiliations, to collectively build a prosperous and competitive Rivers State.
The governor concluded by assuring the public that his administration would continue to prioritise the basic needs of governance, addressing the state soon on the victory, and urging everyone to embrace a peaceful and united future for Rivers State.
