Peoples Democratic Party gubernatorial aspirant for Delta State, David Edevbie, has reacted to the Supreme Court verdict that affirmed the candidacy of Sheriff Oborevwori, saying as a democrat, he has accepted the decision as final but that the dream to mordenise Delta State lives on.
Edevbie, who was defeated by Oborevwori in the gubernatorial primary, challenged the suitability of the Delta State House of Assembly Speaker to fly the party’s flag in court, alleging that inconsistencies in the documents the Speaker submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission invalidated his candidacy.
While the Federal High Court in Abuja granted his request, the Court of Appeal upturned the decision prompting him to proceed to the Supreme Court.
Delivering judgment on the appeal on Friday, the apex court upheld the decision of the Court of Appeal and dismissed Edevbie’s appeal.
In a post on his verified official Face Book page titled “For staying the course… Thank you”, Edevbie said though the verdict of the Supreme Court was not what himself and his teeming supporters expected, but as a democrat, he has accepted the decision as final.
“The Supreme Court’s verdict today brings closure to the process of determining the candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2023 Delta State Governorship election. It has undoubtedly been a long, drawn-out struggle in which several long-cherished relationships were strained.
“While the outcome was not what we desired or prayed for, as democrats, we accept it as final. To all our Party members and stakeholders, especially the youth and all the good people of Delta State in general who stood with us in our quest for the opportunity to deliver a modern State, I understand your disappointment. In the words of Senator Edward Kennedy, “the Dream lives on,” even as I say a huge THANK YOU from the depth of my heart.”
He insisted that the verdict notwithstanding, himself and his supporters should feel free to stand tall and without shame, knowing that they gave their very best. He added that posterity will vindicate them.
“Notwithstanding the outcome, we should all stand tall with our heads unbowed in the firm knowledge that we gave it our best. The court of posterity will undoubtedly judge us with favour.”
He then congratulated Oborevwori and wished him well while noting that the future of Delta State is more important than anybody’s personal bias or interest.
“At this stage, I congratulate the Delta State Gubernatorial flag bearer of PDP, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori, and wish him well in the 2023 General Elections.
“Finally, I would like to remind us all that the future of this State is far more important than anyone’s personal bias or interest, and I encourage us all to continue to strive for the good of every member of this commonwealth. Once again, thank you for your prayers, well wishes, and support!”
However, some of the reactions to the post criticised him for not being categorical by instructing his supporters to join hands with the rest members of the party to ensure victory in the 2023 February gubernatorial election.
