The Supreme Court of Nigeria has established a seven-member panel of justices to consider appeals filed by three presidential candidates challenging the outcome of the February 25 election. The notices for the hearing have been formally delivered to Atiku Abubakar of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Peter Obi of the Labour Party (LP), and Chichi Ojei of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).
Key Points:
- Notice of Hearing Served:
- Notices signed by Zainab M. Garba in the registrar’s office have confirmed the proper notification of all involved parties, adhering to the Supreme Court’s Rules of 1985.
- Panel Members for Review:
- The panel designated to review the appeals includes justices Adamu Jauro, Uwani Musa Abba Aji, Lawal Garba, Helen M. Ogunwumiju, I.N. Saulawa, Tijjani Abubakar, and Emmanuel Agim.
- Atiku Abubakar’s Appeal:
- Atiku contends that the Presidential Election Petitions Court erred in dismissing his petition, citing insufficient evidence regarding irregularities, the 25 percent requirement in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), a $60,000 forfeiture, and INEC’s failure to transmit polling unit results.
- Academic Records Controversy:
- Atiku’s counsel, Chris Uche (SAN), has requested permission to file alleged forged academic records of his opponent, Tinubu.
- Peter Obi’s Assertion:
- Peter Obi argues that the tribunal’s rejection of blurred results from 18,088 polling units amounted to a miscarriage of justice.
- Chichi Ojei’s Concerns:
- Chichi Ojei, representing the APM, questions the validity of Tinubu and his deputy, Kashim Shettima’s nominations for office.
- Tinubu’s Defense:
- Tinubu’s counsel, Wole Olanipekun (SAN), contends that Atiku’s petition constitutes an abuse of court process and lacks merit. Similarly, he asserts that Obi’s petition lacks substance and merit.
Conclusion: The formation of a panel to review the appeals of the three presidential candidates marks a significant step in the legal process following the February 25 election. The arguments put forth by the appellants and the defense strategies will be closely scrutinized, reflecting the importance of this case in Nigeria’s political landscape.
