PRESS RELEASE: HON. CHARLES IDAHOSA, JP, OFR, ON THE SUPREME COURT JUDGMENT AND COMMENTS BY MR. GODWIN OBASEKI

PRESS RELEASE: HON. CHARLES IDAHOSA, JP, OFR, ON THE SUPREME COURT JUDGMENT AND COMMENTS BY MR. GODWIN OBASEKI

While addressing members of the press earlier today, Hon. Charles Idahosa, JP, OFR, expressed strong disapproval of the recent comments made by former Governor Godwin Obaseki in reaction to the Supreme Court’s verdict on the 2024 Edo State governorship election.

“It is quite laughable—and indeed ironic—that the former Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, would openly express disagreement with the Supreme Court judgment,” Hon. Idahosa stated. “This is someone who has twice been a direct beneficiary of the judiciary—in 2016 and again in 2020. One would naturally expect a higher regard for the sanctity and independence of the judiciary from him.”

Speaking further, Hon. Idahosa remarked that instead of upholding the values of democratic governance and rule of law, Mr. Obaseki’s remarks were dismissive and inconsistent. “He went on to claim that his party, the PDP, actually won the September 21 election and that the process was flawed. But let’s not forget—his party challenged the outcome in court. The case was heard and dismissed by both the lower courts and the Supreme Court, with the apex court upholding the victory of the candidates duly declared by INEC.”

He noted that what makes Obaseki’s position particularly disheartening is the double standard it reflects. “This is the same man who hailed the judiciary when it ruled in his favour. But now that the ruling doesn’t favour him, he suddenly questions the credibility of the same judicial process. That kind of inconsistency is dangerous—it undermines public trust in our institutions.”

Hon. Idahosa described the Supreme Court’s decision as “a resounding endorsement of the people’s will and a moral victory for democracy.” He added, “Mr. Obaseki should understand that the rejection of his candidate at the polls was a direct consequence of his own failings as a leader—his high-handedness, his authoritarian style of leadership, and his disconnect from the aspirations of the Edo people.”

He emphasized that democracy thrives only when leaders respect its institutions, particularly the judiciary. “Supporting the courts only when the outcome suits you is a recipe for chaos,” he said. “Allegations are not enough to overturn election results; the law requires facts and credible evidence. In this case, the courts delivered their judgment based solely on merit.”

“As a former governor and statesman, Mr. Obaseki ought to have shown maturity by congratulating the winners for the sake of unity and progress,” Hon. Idahosa added. “Unfortunately, his reaction only serves to deepen division and inflame tensions among the people.”

Concluding his remarks, Hon. Idahosa called on all political actors to embrace the judgment in good faith and work together for the development of Edo State under the leadership of Senator Monday Okpebholo. “The courts have spoken—and in a democracy, that should be the final word,” he affirmed.