Mr Timothy Ayesuwa, candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) for Okitipupa Constituency I, Ondo State at the March 18 House of Assembly elections has accepted defeat.
Ayesuwa told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Okitipupa that he had even congratulated the winner, Mr Chris Ayebusiwa, of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Ayebusiwa polled 10,080 votes at the election to defeat nine other candidates while Ayesuwa, the second runner-up polled 104 votes.
The SDC candidate trailed behind the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) candidate, Jimoh Saliu-Akinsola who scored 3,715 votes.
According to Ayesuwa, all contestants for the same position cannot win an election; it is constitutionally mandated for one person to emerge winner among many contestants.
“I have since accepted the outcome of the election; accepted defeat and congratulated the winner.
“I advise Ayebusiwa not to forget his electioneering promises to the people and his primary assignment to serve his constituents
“I am not challenging the outcome of the poll in court not to cause distractions but rather, I am ready to work with Ayebusiwa in the development of the constituency,’’ Ayesuwa told NAN.
He noted, however, that voter apathy marred the election and advised voters to stop selling their conscience and votes as such habit led to arrested development of the constituency and dividends of democracy.
Ayesuwa commended INEC and security agents for a hitch-free election and a job well done. (NAN)
