Kogi Gubernatorial Election: Tribunal Upholds Usman Ododo’s Victory

By Iyojo Ameh

The Kogi State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, situated in Abuja, has confirmed the legitimacy of the election that saw Usman Ododo declared as the governor of Kogi State.

A three-member panel of Justices presiding over the Tribunal delivered a unanimous judgment, asserting that the petitioners failed to substantiate the allegations outlined in their petition in accordance with the law.

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) and its candidate, Alhaji Muritala Ajaka, had mounted a challenge against Ododo’s election, citing gross violations of electoral laws, including rigging and vote-buying.

Representatives for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Usman Ododo, and the All Progressives Congress (APC), namely Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), Alex Iziyon (SAN), and Emmanuel Ukala (SAN), argued that the petitioners failed to properly list the names of witnesses in their proof of evidence.

Furthermore, they highlighted that the petitioners served the reports of the witness’ analysis just 20 minutes before the commencement of the proceedings, which they argued was insufficient time for proper review and response.

However, counsel for the petitioners, Okutepa, countered these arguments by emphasizing that the forensic expert was indeed listed in the petition and that his statement was provided alongside the petition as required.

The Tribunal’s decision not only validates Usman Ododo’s election but also underscores the critical importance of adhering to procedural requirements in election-related legal proceedings.