In a recent development, the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal in Kogi State has adjourned its sitting indefinitely, awaiting the completion of the inspection of election materials by the Social Democratic Party (SDP)
During the resumed hearing, the SDP acknowledged the cooperation of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in the inspection process, as permitted by the tribunal’s order, but requested additional time.
The tribunal had previously directed INEC to provide certified copies of electoral materials from the November 11 off-cycle election in the state to the SDP within 48 hours.
These materials, including the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System and result sheets for several Local Government Areas, are crucial for the SDP to substantiate its petition against the victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the election.
On November 26, 2023, the tribunal, chaired by Justice Ado Birnin-Kudu, issued this directive in response to ex-parte motions filed by the SDP and its governorship candidate, Alhaji Muritala Yakubu-Ajaka.
Mr. John Adele (SAN), the lead counsel for the petitioners, informed the court that efforts to obtain certified copies of materials had been generally successful, except for minor delays, hindering compliance within the stipulated 48-hour timeframe.
The SDP and Alhaji Muritala Yakubu-Ajaka are contesting the victory of the APC and its candidate, Alhaji Usman Ododo, at the election petition tribunal.
The adjournment reflects the ongoing legal intricacies surrounding the electoral dispute.
