In a statement released on Saturday, Akpata, a former president of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), explained his reasoning.
Akpata acknowledged the challenges in the election process but emphasized his focus on moving forward for the betterment of Edo State, rather than engaging in a lengthy legal battle. He noted that as the legal window for filing petitions at the gubernatorial election tribunal has now closed, his choice reflects his commitment to Edo’s democratic progress.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Monday Okpebholo, the winner with 291,667 votes, followed by Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate Asue Ighodalo with 247,274 votes.
Akpata’s decision is seen as a significant step towards promoting peace and democracy in the state.
“After extensive deliberations with my legal team and key stakeholders, I have made the decision not to challenge the recent election results before the tribunal.
“My decision not to approach the tribunal is not a capitulation to injustice, but a resolute stand against a flawed system.
“I chose to rise above the quagmire of protracted legal battles that often serve to legitimise a fundamentally compromised process. Instead, I commit myself to the arduous but necessary task of systemic reform.
“Our fight transcends the confines of a courtroom; it is a battle for the very soul of our democracy.
The system
“This choice, borne out of deep reflection and rigorous analysis, transcends mere political calculation.
“It is a statement on the state of our democracy and a clarion call for all who cherish the principles of free and fair elections.
“As a legal practitioner with over three decades of experience, alongside my deputy, a distinguished Senior Advocate of Nigeria, we have scrutinised every facet of this election.
“Our conclusion, reached after consulting with some of the nation’s finest legal minds, is not just about the outcome of a single election but about the very foundations of our democratic process,” Akpata noted.
