In a courtroom in Abuja, Nigeria, has initiated the process of calling witnesses to testify in a petition challenging the victory of President Bola Tinubu in the country’s February election. The opposition Labour Party has presented additional evidence supporting their claim that the election was marred by rigging and irregularities. The court proceedings aim to determine the validity of these claims and address the legal issues surrounding the election.
Lawyers representing the opposition have also submitted documents alleging President Tinubu’s involvement in drug trafficking and subsequent settlement with US authorities following an investigation into the alleged drug trafficking. Importantly, it should be noted that President Tinubu has consistently denied any wrongdoing and was never personally charged in connection with the matter.
The key legal issues in this case revolve around significant disputes. The opposition is challenging the validity of the election results, arguing that irregularities and non-compliance with electoral laws occurred. They contend that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) failed to adhere to its own regulations and guidelines during the conduct of the election and did not comply with the provisions of the Electoral Act. Additionally, the petitioners question President Tinubu’s eligibility to participate in the election, alleging a previous indictment and fine for an offense related to dishonesty and drug trafficking. The court will also consider the opposition’s assertion that the votes cast for President Tinubu should be deemed wasted due to his alleged disqualification.
In a separate development, the Presidential Election Petition Court in Abuja granted an adjournment in the case filed by Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate, to challenge the outcome of the February election. Obi’s legal team requested the adjournment due to the sudden illness of two key staff members, which affected their ability to present vital documents supporting their claims of election rigging. The adjournment was agreed upon by all parties involved, including President Tinubu’s legal counsel and representatives of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the All Progressive Congress (APC).
