Presidential candidates Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi of the Peoples Democratic Party and Labour Party have received Certified True Copies of the Presidential Election Petition Courtโs judgment. The court upheld President Bola Tinubuโs election in a 12-hour judgment.
Both Atiku and Obi rejected the courtโs decision. They have vowed to take the matter to the Supreme Court.
Dr Livy Uzoukwu, Obiโs lead counsel, confirmed receiving the judgment copy. Chris Uche, Atikuโs lead counsel, also verified the development.
Phrank Shaibu, Atikuโs Special Assistant on Public Communications, criticized the court. He claimed that withholding the certified copies undermines the quest for justice.
The Lamidi Apapa faction of the Labour Party criticized Obi. They alleged that the failure to pay party agents led to the absence of polling unit results at the tribunal.
Editorial
The acquisition of Certified True Copies by Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi marks a critical juncture in their legal battle against the Presidential Election Petition Courtโs judgment.
The move signifies their unwavering commitment to challenge the courtโs decision, but it also raises questions about the transparency and efficiency of Nigeriaโs judicial system.
The courtโs delay in providing the certified copies is a concerning issue. It not only hampers the candidatesโ ability to file an appeal but also casts a shadow over the impartiality of the judicial process.
The Lamidi Apapa factionโs allegations against Obi add another layer of complexity. If true, it exposes a significant flaw in the Labour Partyโs election strategy and calls into question the integrity of their legal challenge.
The upcoming Supreme Court appeal will be a litmus test for Nigeriaโs democracy. It will determine whether the judiciary can effectively serve as a check on the executive and legislative branches.
Did You Know?
- The Presidential Election Petition Court is a special court set up to handle disputes arising from presidential elections.
- Atiku Abubakar served as Nigeriaโs Vice President from 1999 to 2007.
- Peter Obi was the Governor of Anambra State from 2006 to 2014.
- The Labour Party was founded in 2002 and is one of Nigeriaโs major political parties.
- President Bola Tinubu is a former Governor of Lagos State, serving from 1999 to 2007.
