The Lagos State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) says it is not discouraged by the Supreme Court’s judgment affirming Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu as the winner of the state’s March 18 governorship election.

In a statement on Saturday, the Lagos State PDP publicity secretary, Hakeem Amode, said there would always be another opportunity for the party and its members.

According to him, the party is officially concluding all matters related to the election and moving on.

He said, “We appeal to residents of the state and our numerous supporters to maintain optimism, as we firmly believe that there will always be another opportunity.

“As a party committed to democratic principles, the PDP has no option but to move forward after the highest court has issued a conclusive judgment on the matter.”

Mr Amode said the party’s gubernatorial candidate, Abdulazeez “Jandor” Adediran, had also congratulated Mr Sanwo-Olu on his victory at the apex court.

The spokesman said the party remained dedicated to fostering a thriving democracy, and “we will refrain from any actions that will undermine the hard-fought gains achieved during the military era.”

He said the chapter believed the party had more comprehensive programmes for residents if allowed to serve the people.

“We firmly hold that Lagos State residents should not endure hardship amidst abundance, and we are confident that another chance to serve will emerge in the near future.

” We will not allow this momentary setback to dampen our spirits.

“Our candidate, Jandor, remains committed to public service and will continue to make himself available whenever the need arises.

“There will always be another opportunity, and we will not let this temporary setback hinder our pursuit of making Lagos State an egalitarian society with equal opportunities for everyone,” Mr Amode said.

He expressed the party’s gratitude to everyone who supported PDP before, during, and after the election.

Labour Party’s Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour and PDP’s Mr Adediran had approached the apex court to challenge Mr Sanwo-Olu’s victory in the election.

The LP candidate urged the Supreme Court to hold that irregularities and non-compliance with the Electoral Act marred the March 18 election.

He also added that the Lagos state deputy governor was not qualified to contest the election.

Similarly, Mr Adediran filed 34 grounds of appeal, asking the apex court to upturn the verdict of the Lagos State governorship election tribunal and the court of appeal.

(NAN)