SUPREME COURT HEARS GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION APPEALS OF EBONYI AND BENUE STATES
8th January, 2024
Today, the Supreme Court convened to deliberate on the Governorship Election Appeals of Ebonyi and Benue States.
The panel of Justices, led by Justice John Okoro, presided over the proceedings to address the legal challenges brought before the court.
In attendance were the Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, alongside his deputy, Sam Ode. The focal point of contention in Benue State revolves around the challenge lodged by Titus Uba, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate. Uba is contesting the victory of Governor Hyacinth Alia of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The Court of Appeal in Abuja had previously upheld Alia’s election, citing its lack of jurisdiction to hear the petition as it was deemed a pre-election matter.
The court ruled that Uba should have pursued the forgery allegations against Sam Ode, the deputy governor, in a high court. Moreover, Uba failed to substantiate the forgery accusations against Ode beyond reasonable doubt, as per the court's findings.
Similarly, in Ebonyi State, the Court of Appeal in Lagos affirmed Francis Nwifuru's election as the legitimately elected governor. The appeal filed by Chukwuma Odii of the Peoples Democratic Party was dismissed unanimously by a three-member panel led by Justice Jummai Sankey. The panel deemed the appeal lacking in merit, addressing all raised issues against the appellant.
Justice Sankey clarified that the PDP and its candidate lacked the legal authority to intervene in the internal affairs of the All Progressives Congress regarding the nomination of candidates.
As the Supreme Court deliberates on these appeals, the decisions reached will significantly impact the political landscape of both states.
The outcomes will not only validate election results but also shape the future trajectory of governance in the affected regions.
Angula Bishop Reuben, writes from Supreme Court, Abuja.Fr. Alia TV NetworkFr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia.
More photos below.
Comments
Post a Comment