OPINION: Ogun State Election Petition: PDP’s Strategic Manoeuvres and Lessons from the Past – By Adelani Azeez
In the realm of Ogun State politics, the ongoing PDP governorship election petition has captured the attention of the public. As the process unfolds with strategic precision, the ruling APC has resorted to the familiar tactic of referencing the 2019 APM governorship petition by Hon. Adekunle Akinlade, the former gubernatorial candidate, in an attempt to downplay the significance of the current PDP efforts.
This time, however, the PDP’s petition is distinctly different. It is evident that the party has invested considerable thought and planning into the process, and the execution is diligently underway. With over 200,000 meticulously documented pieces of evidence presented and admitted by the Tribunal, the PDP’s case stands on a solid foundation.
Akinlade himself acknowledges the valuable lessons learned from the 2019 experience. This enlightenment led the team under the guidance of the PDP governorship candidate, Hon. Ladi Adebutu, to enlist clear-minded and dedicated individuals, including a proficient legal team, to oversee the PDP petition.
In response to online taunts from the APC, Akinlade rightly points out that their narrow-minded perspective fails to recognize the growth and knowledge sharing that came from past challenges.
Regardless of the final outcome, which is convincingly shaping in the PDP’s favour, this election petition will undoubtedly serve as a benchmark for future endeavours. It sets a standard for sourcing, procuring, packaging, and presenting evidence. Contrasting the deceptive practices that allegedly took place among APC stakeholders during the 2019 elections, the PDP team exhibited unwavering commitment and dedication in fulfilling their responsibilities.
As the INEC opens its defence on the 2nd of August 2023, to be followed by the APC and 2nd Respondent, the people of Ogun State and the nation eagerly await the unfolding events. The ability to produce verifiable facts or alternative evidence to support their arguments becomes paramount in defending against allegations of electoral malpractice.
In conclusion, the Ogun State PDP’s strategic execution and the invaluable lessons learned from past experiences demonstrate a forward-thinking approach that may shape the state’s political landscape for years to come.
Omo Ogun, Itura de!!
Adelani Alao Azeez writes from Abeokuta
