- Respondents raise objections on various aspects of petitioners’ case
From Abel Leonard, Lafia
The Nasarawa State Governorship Election Tribunal convened on Thursday to hear the closing arguments from the involved parties. The atmosphere was charged with tension as the legal battle over the election outcome neared its climax.
Chief Kanu Godwin Agabi, SAN, counsel for the petitioners, countered the respondent’s arguments. He referenced the precedent set by higher courts, emphasizing their binding nature on the tribunal.
Agabi defended the witness statements of the petitioners, asserting that these witnesses were always available and relevant to the case. He argued that polling unit results (Form EC8As) were the original, certified documents that should guide the tribunal’s decision. Agabi highlighted discrepancies between Form EC8As and other forms and called on the tribunal to focus on the documents themselves rather than relying on witnesses. He concluded by inviting the tribunal to declare the PDP as the winner.
Earlier, the first respondent, represented by Counsel Issiaka Mohammed Dikko (SAN), wasted no time in questioning the credibility of the petitioner’s claims. He argued that the figures presented by the petitioners were unrealistic and lacked substantial evidence to support them.
Chief Wale Olanipekun (SAN), representing Engr. A.A Sule, the second respondent, raised objections to various aspects of the petitioner’s case. He appealed to the tribunal to dismiss the petition, citing that many pieces of evidence brought by the petitioners did not align with the law.
Olanipekun emphasized that the petitioners failed to provide proper witness dispositions and questioned the admissibility of the BVAS data. He pointed out that the petitioners never mentioned any polling units where they secured 25% of the votes.
Dr Hassan Mohammed Liman, representing the third respondent, the APC, echoed the call for dismissal. He also adopted the appeal filed by the second respondent and urged the tribunal to dismiss the petition while charging the petitioners for wasting the state’s resources. Liman emphasized that the petitioners based their submissions on allegations rather than facts.
Tensions Rise as Arguments Continue
Throughout the proceedings, tensions flared as both sides vehemently defended their positions. The judges had to refer to their records to settle disputes.
Daily Sun gathered that the proceedings have been reserved for judgment, and all eyes are now on the Nasarawa State Governorship Election Tribunal as they prepare to make a crucial decision that will determine the fate of the election results. The outcome of this legal battle will have a significant impact on the political landscape in Nasarawa State.