The Kogi Youth Stakeholders Forum has urged the Supreme Court to safeguard democracy by rectifying alleged errors in the judgments of the Tribunal and the Appeal Court regarding the Kogi State governorship election case. In a press conference held in Lokoja, Kogi State, and made available to journalist, the Forum expressed concern over alleged potential impact of external interference on judicial matters.
Comrade Michael Onimisi, one of the speakers from Kogi Central, on behalf of the Forum, said, “As concerned citizens, we are worried about the manner in which judicial matters are being handled in our courts today. Judgments are no longer guided by the position of the laws, but rather by judges’ thoughts using technicalities not supported by the constitution.”
Barrister Ademola Tosin, who spoke as representative from Kogi West, noted that, the Supreme Court should protect itself from the embarrassment caused by some of its officers, particularly in the Kogi Governorship election case, where the judgment allegedly favored the highest bidder. Barrister Ademola emphasized the importance of ensuring that the judiciary remains independent and impartial in its decision-making process.
Recall that, the Kogi State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal and the Court of Appeal dismissed the case filed by the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and its candidate, Murtala Yakubu Ajaka, challenging the victory of Usman Ododo on the grounds that the petition lacked merit and failed to provide substantial evidence to support the allegations of electoral malpractices and non-compliance with the Electoral Act.
According to the SDP, despite the presence of compelling BVAS machines displayed openly in court, on order of the court, demonstrated by an INEC staff, which exposes a clear discrepancies between the number of accredited voters and the final results in all the polling units in contention, presentation of Certified True Copies of all documents, and forensic evidences, The both courts ruled that, the petitioners were unable to provide sufficient evidence to substantiate their claims of over-voting and rigging during the election.
As the case moves to the Supreme Court, there is significant anticipation surrounding the potential outcomes. The apex court will review the judgments of the lower courts and examine the evidence presented by both parties. This will be closely watched by both parties, supporters, and the general public, as it has the potential to significantly impact the political landscape in Kogi State and set a precedent for future election-related disputes in Nigeria.
