TheCable

Godwin Obaseki, governor of Edo state, has hailed the judgement of the federal high court in Abuja that dismissed a certificate forgery suit against him.

Ahmed Mohammed, the presiding judge, dismissed the suit on Saturday,  saying the plaintiffs failed to put credible evidence before the court to prove their case.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) and one Williams Edobor, a chieftain of the party, had filed a suit against Obaseki, accusing him of forging the first degree certificate which he submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to enable him contest the governorship election.

An allegation that was denied by the Edo governor.

Reacting , in a statement, Obaseki said the verdict was “well-received and a victory for the rule of law”.

He said the suit was the most needless attempt by those who hijack the will of the people through the back door.

“The verdict of the Federal High Court, delivered by Honourable Justice Ahmed Mohammed on the allegation of certificate forgery is well-received and a victory for the rule of law,” the governor said in a statement.

“The suit was a most needless attempt by desperate individuals trying to undo the will of the people through the backdoor but we are happy today that justice and truth have prevailed.”

The governor commended President Muhammadu Buhari, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and residents of the state for “standing for truth and justice”.

“My profound gratitude goes to the judiciary who have stood indefatigably for truth and justice; the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR); my party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP); our party leaders and members; my teeming supporters; the good people of Edo State and all Nigerians,” the governor said.