Witnesses in the Rivers State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal in Abuja have said there was no governorship election in Rivers State on April 11.

Dakuku Peterside of the All Progressives Congress (APC) had brought the petition challenging the election of Governor Nyesom Wike of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the April 11 governorship election.

While being cross-examined by counsel to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), Lawrence Chukwu, a former deputy chairman of Obia-Akpor Local Government Area on Saturday insisted that there were no election materials in about 75 per cent of the polling units in the area. He said he served as collation officer during the election.

Also testifying Opudu Fred Hosfall from Asari-Toru Local Government Area said there was no election because election materials were burnt and intending voters prevented from voting by supporters loyal to the PDP.

“The shooting by thugs loyal to the PDP did not allow us to vote and to carry our responsibilities. No election took place in Asari Local Government of Rivers State. The materials were burnt with the vehicles hired to carry the materials. Those claiming there was election are in a dream land,” he said.

The APC has presented 22 out of the 200 witnesses to testify in the tribunal.

Meanwhile, APC counsel Akin Olujimi (SAN) has informed the tribunal that APC witnesses were receiving threat messages on their telephones from yet-to -be identified persons who had warned them to stay away from Port Harcourt after testifying.

However, defence counsels Chris Uche (SAN) and Emmanuel Ukala (SAN) have denied knowledge of the development, while describing same as mere allegation.

Tribunal chairman, Justice Mohammed Ambrosa advised those who received such text messages to inform security agencies about the development. Hearing continues today.

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