Electoral Showdown Tribunal Backs Tinubu Atiku & Obi Fight Back Supreme Court Battle Looms

Tribunal Upholds President Tinubu’s Victory; Atiku and Obi Plan Supreme Court Appeal

In a recent development in Nigeria’s political arena, the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal has reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s victory in the presidential election. This decision has sparked plans for an appeal by his challengers, Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi.

The tribunal, in a unanimous decision, ruled that Atiku and Obi failed to substantiate their claims of electoral irregularities and rigging. Furthermore, they were unable to specify where these alleged infractions occurred, undermining their case significantly.

Kehinde Edun, the legal adviser to the Labour Party, expressed disappointment over the judgment, particularly the exclusion of ten of their thirteen witnesses. Atiku’s lead counsel, Chris Uche, SAN, announced their intention to challenge the verdict in the Supreme Court.

Additionally, the tribunal dismissed claims that President Tinubu was not validly nominated due to allegations of dual citizenship and a criminal conviction in the United States. It clarified that candidate qualifications are determined by political parties and are not subject to legal scrutiny.

Regarding the electronic transmission of election results, the tribunal clarified that it is not mandatory and that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has the authority to define the mode of transmission. The sole technological requirement mandated by INEC is the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System.

President Tinubu welcomed the tribunal’s decision and pledged his commitment to serving all Nigerians, regardless of their political affiliations. The verdict received accolades from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and other prominent figures.

However, Atiku and Obi’s refusal to accept the judgment sets the stage for the next legal chapter as they prepare to take their case to the Supreme Court.

This unfolding legal saga continues to shape Nigeria’s political landscape, with implications for the nation’s democratic processes and governance.