By Akinsuroju Olubunmi
Ogun and Sokoto Governorship Election petitions: Tribunals to deliver judgments today
In a significant development, the Election Petition Tribunals for Ogun and Sokoto states are poised to render their judgments today, determining the electoral fates of the incumbent governors, Prince Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State and Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State. The opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its governorship candidate, Ladi Adebutu, have fervently challenged Abiodun’s re-election following the March 18 gubernatorial poll in Ogun. This pivotal decision comes after a thorough review of written submissions by the concerned parties on September 4, 2023, as confirmed by the Ogun Tribunal Secretary, Obioma Ezenta.
Adebutu and the PDP contest the return of Abiodun, as initially declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in the March 18 election. Simultaneously, in Sokoto, the Governorship Election Petition Tribunals is poised to announce its verdict on the lawsuit contesting Aliyu’s election. The tribunal, in August, reserved judgment on the petition against Governor Aliyu and his Deputy, Idris Gobir, filed by Sa’idu Umar of the PDP. Justice Haruna Mshelia, the tribunal’s Chairman, opted to reserve judgment after both parties concluded their final written addresses, pledging to communicate the decision date to the concerned parties in September.
Umar’s challenge revolves around allegations of non-qualification and electoral fraud against Aliyu and Gobir of the All Progressives Congress during the March 18 gubernatorial election. Meanwhile, ahead of the tribunal’s judgment, the Sokoto State Police Command, under the leadership of Commissioner Ali Kaigama, has issued a prohibition on any form of processions or celebrations. The ban, announced in a statement on Friday by the command’s spokesperson, ASP Ahmad Rufai, emphasizes that any gatherings or processions infringing on the law or disrupting public peace will not be tolerated.
This pivotal day holds immense significance for both Ogun and Sokoto states and thr tribunals, as citizens await the tribunals’ verdicts, which will ultimately shape the political landscape of these regions. Stay tuned for further updates on this unfolding story.