By Seyiwa Mausi Koshoedo
The Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has refused to concede defeat in the August 15 governorship election, saying it is studying the results and consulting its legal team before deciding on its next line of action.
The party said it was reviewing the results recorded across the 332 wards in the state to determine whether there were grounds to challenge the outcome through the constitutionally recognised legal channels.
The APC disclosed this in a statement issued in Osogbo on Sunday by its Director of Media and Information, Kola Olabisi.
The party maintained that the declaration of the result by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) did not bring the electoral process to an end, noting that political parties have the right to seek redress where they believe irregularities occurred.
“Election is a process which begins at the registration of voters through the primary election to the election proper, which extends to the Tribunal, the Appeal Court and terminates at the Supreme Court,” the party said.
The APC argued that perceived anomalies in an election could be addressed through the legal mechanisms provided under the Electoral Act 2026, as amended.
It said it would consult its team of lawyers before determining whether to pursue legal action.
“As a progressive party founded on the unalloyed principle of the rule of law, fairness and justice, we shall not hesitate to explore the window allowed by the extant Electoral Act after due consultation with our team of lawyers based on their professional advice,” the statement said.
While acknowledging INEC’s declaration as part of the democratic process, the APC urged its members and supporters to remain calm and avoid actions that could lead to confrontation with members of the ruling party.
The party also appealed to its supporters not to lose hope over the election outcome, assuring them that it would explore all lawful avenues available.
“It is not over until it is over,” the party said.
The APC further called on the Nigeria Police Force to protect its members and supporters, alleging that some of them had been “needlessly molested” by supporters of the Accord Party.
It assured affected members that the party would continue to support them and would not abandon them.
The APC’s position followed INEC’s declaration of Governor Ademola Adeleke as winner of Saturday’s governorship election, securing another term in office.
The party also commended its members and supporters for their loyalty, commitment and contributions throughout the electoral process.
It urged them to remain peaceful while the leadership reviews the results and determines its next course of action through lawful and constitutional means.
