…..Highlights Concerns, Accuses Opposition of Propaganda
From Abel Leonard, Lafia
In a recent press conference held in Nasarawa State on Wednesday, Hon. Aliyu Bello, the State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), addressed the media on the aftermath of the Appeal Court’s judgment regarding the gubernatorial election dispute.
Bello expressed gratitude and concern over the recent developments following the Appeal Court’s decision to reverse the verdict of the Nasarawa State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal.
Bello recounted the initial Tribunal’s ruling, which controversially overturned the popular mandate given to Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule, the APC gubernatorial candidate, in favor of Hon. David Emmanuel Ombugadu of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Promptly appealing against the Tribunal’s decision, Bello emphasized the significance of the Appellate Court’s reversal, characterizing the earlier ruling as a “travesty of justice.”
He highlighted the jubilant reception received by Governor Sule upon his return to the State from the Appeal Court, acknowledging the overwhelming support from the populace.
However, Bello expressed concerns over the opposition’s behavior, accusing the PDP and its candidate of inciting disharmony among the people through divisive rhetoric. He denounced the PDP’s attempt to classify citizens as ‘indigenes’ and ‘non-indigenes,’ emphasizing the state’s historical inclusivity.
The APC chairman criticized the PDP’s actions, citing their intention to gain power “through the back door,” referencing inflammatory remarks made by the PDP chairman and the mobilization of supporters for protests that have disrupted peace in the state capital, Lafia.
Bello condemned the PDP’s alleged resort to superstition and divisive tactics, including claims of spiritual interventions for electoral victory, labeling such actions as primitive and undemocratic.
He reiterated confidence in the judiciary, emphasizing the comprehensive and unequivocal nature of the Appellate Court’s judgment. Bello highlighted anomalies in the Tribunal’s decision, citing lack of evidence and acceptance of “hearsay” testimonies, which led to the annulment of Governor Sule’s re-election.
The APC chairman however, called for peace, unity, and adherence to the rule of law, while commending the media for fair and balanced reportage of the election litigation. He urged all stakeholders to support Governor Sule’s vision for development in Nasarawa State.