The Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, has decided to challenge the decision of the Appeal Court that invalidated his victory in the March 18 election.
A three-member panel of the appellate court, headed by Justice Elfrieda Williams-Dawodu, set aside the ruling of the governorship election tribunal that had upheld Mutfwang’s win in the election. The panel declared the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda, as the duly elected governor of the state.
In a statement released in Jos by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Mr. Gyang Bere, the governor characterized the verdict as a temporary setback. He affirmed that the ruling would not deter his plans to reposition the state for continuous growth and development.
Mutfwang conveyed a strong belief that his mandate would ultimately be reinstated at the Supreme Court.
The statement read: “I want to assure the people of Plateau that the mandate they overwhelmingly gave me will be restored; I have instructed my legal team to file an appeal at the Supreme Court.
“I hereby admonish citizens of the state and supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to remain calm, for as long as God remains on the throne, the mandate of the people will not be tampered with.
“I want to also reiterate my commitment to the rule of law and assure you all that there is light at the end of the tunnel.
“I have unwavering faith in the judiciary and the Constitution of Nigeria.
“I want to strongly appeal to our supporters, as well as citizens of the state to maintain law and order as Plateau will be victorious.
“I reassure you all of my commitment to continually serve the state with dedication and integrity.”