The Labour Party governorship candidate in Imo State, Athan Achonu, said on Tuesday the verdict of the Supreme Court on the November 11, 2023 election did not truly reflect democracy.
Achonu stated this when he addressed journalists in his country home in Umunumo, Ehime Mbano local government area of the state.
The apex court on August 23 upheld Governor Hope Uzodinma’s victory in the election.
Achonu commended the judiciary for considering the suit he filed challenging the result of the election.
He, however, warned against what he described as an “unhealthy political culture where the judiciary’s pronouncements outweigh the people’s votes.”
The LP candidate called for a change in the narrative through amendments to the electoral law.
READ ALSO: INEC denies taking money from Imo LP governorship candidate, Achonu
Achonu said: “I respect the judiciary as the final arbiter in our electoral system but I must express my deep concerns borne, not out of bitterness, but out of a steadfast commitment to the principles of justice and fairness that our democracy should uphold.
“I want to assure our people that, as the opposition, the Labour Party will be guided by decency, decorum, and constructive criticism, encouraging the government where it does well and calling it out where it fails to do well.
“To Imo people, I extend my deepest gratitude for your unwavering support and belief in our vision for a more prosperous state, while restating that be it as it may, our resolve to serve you and champion your interests remains unbroken.
“Though this judicial decision may be disheartening, we shall continue to strive for a just, fair, and truly democratic Nigeria,” he stated.
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