PANDEF Criticizes Legal Representation in Election Matter: Calls for Caution and Appeal
PANDEF (PAN Niger Delta Elders Forum) has expressed dissatisfaction with the legal representatives of the Labour Party’s Peter Obi and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in a recent presidential election case. Ken Robinson, the National Publicity Secretary of PANDEF, stated that the lawyers did not perform adequately and did not conduct proper due diligence in handling the matter.
Robinson explained that during the lengthy 11-hour judgment, there were significant lapses in the legal presentations, which he found regrettable. He noted that the Court of Appeal’s judges provided comprehensive and clear explanations, even for those without legal expertise.
While recognizing emotional reactions from some quarters, Robinson emphasized that the court’s decisions are grounded in the evidence presented, not emotions. He encouraged those dissatisfied with the judgment of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal to follow the appropriate legal procedures and pursue an appeal.
PANDEF concluded by urging all parties involved to avoid making statements that could escalate tensions and called for respect for the judiciary’s decisions. They stressed the importance of maintaining national unity, peace, and the development of Nigeria’s democracy.
