From Abel Leonard, Lafia
The Nasarawa State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal convened in Lafia on Wednesday, August 2nd, 2023, to further examine the claims put forth by Hon. David Emmanuel Ombugadu and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
The day’s proceedings saw the presentation of crucial witnesses and their testimonies, shedding light on alleged irregularities during the recent governorship election.
Key witnesses identified as PW18 and PW19, hailing from Ihamkpe Electoral Ward in Toto and Ashige Electoral Ward in Lafia LGAs respectively, were called upon by the PDP to bolster their case.
The witnesses provided compelling statements under oath, highlighting incidents of over voting in Ihamkpe Polling Unit with code 010. Shockingly, the discrepancy emerged when the total BVAS accreditation was recorded as 176, while Form EC8A displayed an inflated figure of 476.
Moreover, the witnesses contested the cancellation of election results in Ashige Electoral Ward. They refuted claims that Form EC40G was filed to document the cancellation, asserting that the Governorship election in 35 out of 36 Polling Units of Ashige Electoral Ward proceeded peacefully, with the results properly transmitted to the INEC IRev Portal.
In an unexpected turn of events, INEC’s inability to produce essential documents required to substantiate their defense prompted the lead counsel for the Petitioners, J.S Okutepa SAN, to request an adjournment. The Tribunal, taking into consideration the plea, granted the adjournment, setting the next hearing for Wednesday, August 16th, 2023.
However, the Respondents’ counsel faced scrutiny as they appeared to rely on technicalities and legal jargon, sparking criticism for their perceived evasion of substantive issues at hand.
As the hearing progresses, the spotlight remains on the Nasarawa State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, where the truth behind the alleged irregularities will continue to be unveiled.