The Court of Appeal has affirmed the election of David Zacharias (APC-Kogi) for the Idah/Ibaji/Igalamela/Ofu federal constituency of Kogi.

In a judgment delivered on Wednesday by Justice Abubakar Talba, the court upheld the judgment of the Kogi election petitions tribunal.

The election tribunal had dismissed the petition of PDP candidate Victor Uchola for lack of merit, which led to the appeal at the high court.

Reacting to the judgement, Mr Zacharias said there was no victor and no vanquished, saying the victory was for the entire constituents.

The lawmaker expressed his unwavering confidence in the judiciary as the last hope of the masses.

“I was confident that the mandate given to me by the constituents and the good people of Kogi will be retained. This judgement is a reflection of the will and aspirations of the people as expressed at the poll,” said Mr Zacharias. “Now that the litigation process is over, it is time to focus totally on bringing the dividends of democracy to the people of my constituency and, indeed, the entire Kogi and Nigeria as a whole.”

The legislator added, “I call on all to join hands with me to make our constituency the best in Nigeria. Let us work together to develop our home for the good of all.”

Mr Zacharias said he would welcome any partnership from stakeholders, including his opponents, toward developing his constituency. He commended his party, APC, for standing by him and for the confidence reposed in him.

The rep urged his supporters to be magnanimous in celebrating yet another victory and to ensure law and order in the constituency and the entire state. 

(NAN)