By Ikechukwu Okaforadi
An All Progressives Congress, APC, senator, Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, has vowed to challenge the nullification of his election by the National Assembly Election Petitions Tribunal sitting in Asaba, Delta State.
The tribunal had in a ruling on Wednesday declared the February 25 National Assembly election for Delta South Senatorial District inconclusive.
The tribunal also ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to conduct a supplementary re-run election in the Warri South Local Government Area of the state within 90 days.
Thomas had been declared winner of the election by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.
However, following a petition by the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Micheal Diden, the tribunal voided Thomas’ victory, declaring the election inconclusive.
Reacting to the tribunal’s judgement in a statement made available to journàlists on Thursday, Thomas said he will appeal the verdict.
“I am aware of the judgement delivered by the National Assembly Petition Tribunal sitting in Asaba, Delta State.
“Though we are yet to receive the certified true copy of the judgement, preliminary brief suggest sufficient grounds for appeal which will give us victory.
“As I consult the leadership of our party and my legal team, be rest assured that, we will appeal this judgement and we will do everything within our God given grace to defend our mandate.”
He urged his supporters and members of the APC in Delta South Senatorial District to remain calm.
“Be rest assured that, by God’s grace, the mandate you gave to me at the polls will be defended and I will remain your Senator now and for the next four years.”
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