Tribunal Halts Kogi Guber Proceedings Amidst Court Of Appeal’s Inspection Order Setback

Tribunal Halts Kogi Guber Proceedings Amidst Court Of Appeal’s Inspection Order Setback

In a dramatic turn of events, the Kogi State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, situated in Abuja, adjourned proceedings on Monday until March 14, following the Court of Appeal’s decision to set aside the inspection order previously granted to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and its candidate, Murtala Ajaka.

This adjournment marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing legal battle, with the SDP challenging the election victory of Governor Ahmed Ododo of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The tribunal’s decision came in the wake of the Court of Appeal’s ruling, which annulled certain provisions of the tribunal’s earlier directive and expunged paragraphs ‘g’, ‘k’, and ‘n’ from its verdict.

Upon reconvening on Monday, counsel for the petitioners, Jibrin Okutepa, SAN, commenced proceedings as scheduled. However, Kanu Agabi, SAN, representing the first respondent, drew attention to the recent appellate court ruling and submitted an affidavit outlining its implications.

In light of this development, the tribunal deemed it necessary to adjourn the hearing to allow for deliberation on the implications of the Court of Appeal’s decision.

Meanwhile, the scheduled tendering of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) devices and other materials could not proceed on Monday due to the ramifications of the appellate court’s judgment.

The Court of Appeal’s intervention, delivered on Friday, nullified the inspection order granted to the SDP and its candidate by the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, citing violations of the Electoral Act. The appellate court underscored the necessity for joint inspections with respondents and adherence to the statutory limits outlined in the Electoral Act.

The panel, led by Justice J.O.K. Oyewole and comprising Justices A. I. Banjoko and A.B. Mohammed, emphasized that while the tribunal retained jurisdictional competence, certain aspects of its directives exceeded the statutory framework, warranting their expulsion.

With the adjournment of proceedings, stakeholders await further developments in the legal contest, as the tribunal navigates the intricate legal terrain amidst the backdrop of the Court of Appeal’s recent intervention.