The party, in a statement issued by Mr Kola Ologbondiyan, its National Publicity Secretary, in Abuja, described the judgment as victory to the rule of law and the genuine will of the people of Bayelsa.

He stated: “The celebration that erupted in the state at the breaking of the news of the verdict is not only a testimony that indeed justice was upheld but also that Diri is indeed the choice of the people.”

Ologbondiyan said that like other PDP governors, Diri, indeed, hit the ground running in the task of developing Bayelsa, particularly in his outline of projects in key sectors, in spite of “the prevailing fiscal challenges”.

The party’s spokesperson said that the sectors included manufacturing, agriculture, oil and gas, power, road infrastructure and education, among others.

“Our party, therefore, urges Diri not to relent but continue in his commitment toward the good of all, in line with the manifesto of the PDP.

He also congratulated the people of Bayelsa for Diri’s victory at the Court of Appeal.

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The court in a unanimous judgment, set aside the judgment of the Bayelsa Governorship Election Petition Tribunal which nullified Diri’s election and ordered INEC to conduct fresh elections within 90 days.
—-Details later..

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Siasia told newsmen that his lawyers filed the appeal to FIFA on Aug. 27, while another appeal was filed with the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) on Aug. 29.

He however denied any involvement in any illegal act, such as match-fixing, saying he was well aware they are contrary to the ethics of the football sport.

“I wish to state that I have never been and would never be a party to any form of unethical conduct or perversion in the discharge of my duties in any capacity.

“I built my career in the football industry on the foundation of hard work, integrity, consistency and God.

“In all my career, I have done nothing but serve my country and clubs to the best of my personal and professional ability, with all my strength and might, with discipline, pride and passion and an awareness that it is a privilege to be an ambassador of our great nation.

“It is my greatest hope and belief that my country also stands by and with me at a time like this,” the former Super Eagles forward said.

The former player of French side Nantes and KSC Lokeren in Belgium said the entire proceedings and decision were only brought to his notice on Aug. 16.

“That was when the news broke in the public domain and friends and family started to call. I was totally unaware of the proceedings until I heard about FIFA’s decision.

“While I may not be able to publicly divulge the details and specifics, of the appeal, I think it fit to inform you that I have appealed against FIFA’s Decision and you all will probably hear the results like you heard about the ban.

“I am currently taking legal advice. My lawyer, Austin Otah, has been liaising with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and its counsel,” he said.

Siasia who also played for Nigeria at the youth level then expressed his gratitude to all Nigerians.

“I thank everyone who has supported me in one way or the other. I must state that this is the most trying period of my life.

“I am still dealing with the pains and challenges of my mother being kidnapped again and fighting to secure her release.

“I urge the nation to support me with prayers, goodwill and support of all kind. The demands are very heavy,” he said, struggling to control a surge of emotions.

Otah also reacted on the appeal.

“We have actually assisted Siasia to file his appeal and we are awaiting FIFA to acknowledge the receipt of the appeal. We are awaiting feedback from FIFA and CAS.

“The FIFA decision requires Siasia to appeal to CAS. We are exploring an internal appeal mechanism, and this will exceptionally be with the Appeal Committee of FIFA.

“But, that notwithstanding, we are still to ensure that his appeal rights are not impeded in anyway”, Otah disclosed.

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