Peter Obi Disagrees with Supreme Court, Declares Labour Party Opposition in Nigeria

The Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed his strong disapproval of the Supreme Court’s verdict regarding the 2023 general election, asserting that the highest court failed to consider the overwhelming evidence presented to it. Obi conveyed his concerns during a press conference held on Monday, where he accused both the Supreme Court and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of altering the rules of the game as the election’s umpires.

It’s worth recalling that the Supreme Court concurred with the September 6 decision of the Presidential Election Petition Court on all counts. Justice Inyang Okoro, heading a seven-man panel at the apex court, delivered a unanimous judgment that resolved all seven key issues raised in the appeals filed by the presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and Peter Obi in favor of Tinubu.

In the lead judgment, delivered by Justice Inyang Okoro, the apex court declared that there was no merit in Atiku/PDP and Obi/LP’s petitions seeking to annul the election’s outcome.

In response to this development, the former Anambra governor remarked, “As believers in the rule of law, the Supreme Court represents the final stage of our legal pursuit for closure on this matter. As a party and a candidate, Datti and I have now exhausted all available legal and constitutional remedies. Nevertheless, this end marks the beginning of our quest for a brighter future for the common man in Nigeria.”

Obi continued, “Both INEC and the Supreme Court, as the referees of this contest, altered the rules midway through the game. Our dedication to a new Nigeria remains unwavering. Moving forward, the Labour Party and the Obedient movement are now positioned effectively as part of the opposition.”

Expanding on his party’s mission for a new Nigeria, Obi stressed the importance of a government formed on the basis of capacity, character, and competence. He expressed his determination to convey this message of hope across the entire nation, reaching people where they experience challenges and offering solutions to their needs. This outreach will take place in various settings, from marketplaces and motor parks to town halls, boardrooms, universities, and college campuses.

“As stakeholders in the Labour Party, we remain committed to our manifesto. Our focus will continue to be on advocating for good governance and addressing issues that promote national interest and unity. We will prioritize our constitution, the rule of law, and safeguarding other fundamental principles. In the upcoming elections, we will provide checks and balances to support the election of individuals who share our vision of a new Nigeria,” Obi affirmed.

In summary, Peter Obi’s critique of the Supreme Court’s verdict in the 2023 general election centers on his belief that the court failed to address the compelling evidence presented, and he accuses both INEC and the Supreme Court of altering the rules during the electoral process. Despite the legal avenues being exhausted, Obi remains dedicated to his mission for a new Nigeria, emphasizing good governance, national unity, and the protection of constitutional values as integral components of his vision for the country. The Labour Party, along with the Obedient movement, is now prepared to serve as a robust opposition in the pursuit of a better future for all Nigerians.