Rédaction Africa Links 24 with News Desk
Published on 2024-03-12 10:28:22
The Bayelsa Governorship Election Petition Tribunal recently made a ruling on a motion filed by the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its governorship candidate, Timipre Sylva, regarding their petition challenging the election of Gov. Douye Diri. The motion requested the panel to recuse itself from handling their petition, but the tribunal’s chairman, Justice Adekunle Adeleye, dismissed the motion after hearing arguments from the counsel representing the parties involved.
Tunde Falola represented Sylva, Charles Edosanwan represented the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and Chris Uche, SAN, represented Gov. Diri. Chukwuma Machukwu-Ume, SAN, represented the Deputy Governor, while Tayo Oyetibo, SAN, represented the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
The counsel for the petitioners expressed their concerns about the tribunal’s ability to deliver justice and stated that they believed they would not receive a fair hearing due to alleged strange circumstances exhibited by the tribunal. As a result, they requested that the tribunal step aside so that a new panel could be constituted to hear their petition.
However, Justice Adeleye referenced a letter from the President of the Court of Appeal, dated March 5, which mandated the tribunal to proceed with hearing the petition regardless of any applications made by the parties. The judge emphasized that the letter from the Appeal Court president superseded the petitioners’ request for the disbandment of the tribunal.
On the other hand, all the respondents, including Diri, his deputy, INEC, and the PDP, opposed the request for the panel to recuse themselves. They argued that the motion was an attempt to hinder them from presenting their defense and accused the APC and Sylva of trying to manipulate the tribunal members. The respondents highlighted that the petitioners had prematurely closed their case before the allocated time had expired, undercutting claims of denial of fair hearing.
The respondents also pointed out that both the APC and Sylva had participated in the pre-hearing session and had agreed to the set schedule of time. The tribunal adjourned the hearing to March 13 and 14 for INEC to begin and conclude its defense.
In conclusion, the ruling by the Bayelsa Governorship Election Petition Tribunal reflected the complexities and legal maneuvering involved in challenging election results. The decision to dismiss the motion for the panel to recuse itself showcased the commitment to following due process and ensuring a fair and unbiased hearing for all parties involved in the petition.
Read the original article on DailyNigerian.com
