Court Reserves Judgment In SDP, Ajaka’s Appeal From Kogi State...CONTINUE READING

The Court of Appeal in Abuja has deferred its ruling on the appeal filed by Muritala Ajaka, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate, challenging the state election petition tribunal’s decision. The tribunal had previously upheld Governor Usman Ododo’s victory in the November 11, 2023, Kogi State governorship election.

This appeal stems from a May 27, 2024, tribunal ruling that dismissed the SDP’s claims of over-voting and Electoral Act non-compliance, deeming their evidence “incompetent and inconsistent.” The tribunal also categorized forgery allegations as issues that should have been addressed before the election.

During proceedings, both sides presented arguments before the justices, who adjourned without setting a new date, promising to notify all parties involved.

Representing Ajaka, counsel Pius Akubo urged the court to overturn the tribunal’s decision and declare Ajaka Kogi State’s legitimate governor, citing 31 grounds of appeal. In contrast, Governor Ododo’s counsel, Joseph Daudu, and APC’s Emmanuel Ukala argued for the appeal’s dismissal, asserting insufficient evidence regarding over-voting and testimony admissibility.

Daudu emphasized procedural errors in the petitioners’ witness testimony, supporting the tribunal’s decision to exclude it and affirm Governor Ododo’s election.

The Court of Appeal’s decision to reserve judgment adheres to standard procedures, ensuring a comprehensive review of arguments and evidence before reaching a verdict.