The National and State Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Makurdi has affirmed the election of Senator Abba Morro, of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), representing, the Benue South Senatorial zone, otherwise known as Zone C.
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The All Progressive Congress (APC) candidate, Comrade Daniel Onjeh, who was not satisfied with the Independent National Election Commission (INEC) declaration Senator Morro, had filed a petition before the tribunal.
The chairman of the Tribunal, Justice Ory Zik-Ikeorha, who delivered the lead judgment on Sunday, September 10, said the evidence adduced by the petitioners is weak, porous, and lacking in substance and hence can’t sustain the petition. Onjeh had on March 17, filed the petition, which is predicated on three grounds that Senator Morro was at the time of the election not qualified to contest, that Morro was not elected by a majority of the lawful votes cast as well and that his election was invalid by reason of noncompliance with Electoral Act, guidelines and manual for the election.
Although Senator Morro raised an objection as to the competence of the petition, the objection was dismissed and the petition was heard on its merit. According to the judgment, which was concurred by the three members of the panel, the petitioners failed to call credible and reliable evidence to get a judgment. It was further held that in the issue of non-compliance, the petitioner must not only plead the relevant act under which they are complaining but also adduce sufficient and tender compelling evidence to prove that such non-compliance took place.
The Tribunal further stated that such noncompliance affects the case of the petitioners but has failed to call a credible and reliable witness. It said: “Reliefs sought are hereby refused. The petition stands dismissed in entirety.”
Senator Morro’s counsel, R. O. Adakole, Esq, said: “The pronouncement by the Tribunal is a victory for democracy. It’s a victory for democracy because democracy is where the majority has a voice. “Given the judgment, it’s clear, even to the blind that the people of Zone C (Benue South) voted for Sen Moro.”
But Onjeh and his team of lawyers, said they’ve rejected the decision of the court. He is optimistic that he will win at the Court of Appeal.
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