Yesterday being 1st March, 2024, there was an update that Appeal Court has issued an Ex Parte Order to Kogi Tribunal to reinspect the Electoral Materials earlier inspected due to fact that Usman Ahmed Ododo deliberately refused to participate in the inspection.
This issue has generated reaction among Kogites and interest groups who are monitoring Kogi’s Tribunal Election with ken interest.
It is against this background that OurWorldGist’s Writer, Sani Michael Omakoji, ( SMO) xtrays the issue therein and beyond.
Let us read what Sani Michael Omakoji , a public affairs Analyst has to state:
“In the wake of recent developments in the Kogi State Appeal Court, many individuals find themselves puzzled by the unfolding events.
While not a legal expert, I am deeply invested in understanding the dynamics of our societal landscape.
At the heart of the matter lies the legal maneuvering of Usman Ahmed Ododo and his team, which sheds light on a prevalent issue within the judicial system – one that has both enriched and tarnished the careers of judges.
The crux of the issue revolves around the Kogi Tribunal Election stemming from the disputed November 2023 gubernatorial election. Usman Ahmed Ododo, representing the All Progressive Congress (APC), allegedly rigged the election in collaboration with former Governor Yahaya Bello.
The controversy surrounding the election escalated when political thugs, allegedly deployed by Yahaya Bello, attacked tribunal members in Lokoja.
Subsequently, the tribunal relocated to Abuja upon the request of Alhaji Muritala Yakubu Ajaka, the candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
Faced with mounting pressure and the likelihood of an unfavorable outcome, Governor Yahaya Bello resorted to familiar tactics – leveraging financial resources to influence the judiciary. Seeking an ex parte order to halt the tribunal proceedings, Bello and Ododo aimed to disrupt the legal process.
An ex parte order, a legal decision made without the presence of all parties involved, can be obtained by either the petitioners or respondents.
However, such orders are not immune to challenge, as demonstrated by the potential for Ajaka of the SDP to appeal against it.
While these legal battles unfold, it’s important to note that they do not impede the tribunal proceedings nor invalidate potential judgments.
However, they do highlight the susceptibility of the judicial system to corruption and undue influence.
Instances of judges granting ex parte orders to the highest bidder have sparked condemnation from the National Judiciary Commission, leading to the dismissal of several judges.
Despite allegations of bribery during President Muhammadu Buhari’s regime, the actions of the current administration, particularly under Tinubu’s governance, remain under scrutiny.
As the legal saga continues, I urge members of the SDP to maintain composure, reaffirming the sanctity of Muritala Yakubu Ajaka’s victory.
In conclusion, the unfolding events in Kogi State underscore broader issues within our judicial system, emphasizing the need for transparency, integrity, and accountability”.
This article is authored by Sani Michael Omakoji, a public affairs Analyst on public issues.
You can follow him on Twitter or Xhandle @Omakogi1 or email him : omakogibizventures@gmail.com
