Bankole Wellington, the singer and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, known as Banky W, expressed his gratitude for the ruling of the Election Petitions Tribunal ordering a rerun in the Eti-Osa Federal Constituency in Lagos State. He described it as nothing short of a miracle to have a second opportunity to complete the election.
Appearing on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Banky W acknowledged the significance of perseverance, faith, and the collective will of the people who seek to contribute to the reconstruction of democracy.
The tribunal’s judgment, delivered on Monday, nullified the victory of Thaddeus Atta of the Labour Party, declaring the election inconclusive. It directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a supplementary election within 90 days in 33 polling units where elections did not take place. This decision came in response to petitions from Banky W, the runner-up, and Ibrahim Babajide Obanikoro (IBO) of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Banky W emphasized the frustration of many voters who were unable to participate in the previous election and stressed the importance of upholding the constitutional right to vote.
He pointed out that over 30 polling units with nearly 30,000 voters were prevented from casting their votes due to various issues, including violence and voter suppression. Additionally, INEC officers failed to show up at some polling locations.
Banky W also recalled joining protesters at the collation center following the February 25th vote and expressed gratitude that the court recognized the value of every vote and every voice in the electoral process.
In the initial election earlier this year, Thaddeus Atta secured 24,075 votes in the Eti-Osa legislative election to emerge as the winner, with Banky W and IBO receiving 18,668 and 16,901 votes, respectively.
