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Big Story: Labour Party and Peter Obi Seek Interrogation of INEC as Election Petition Unfolds

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The Labour Party (LP) and its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, have taken legal action by seeking an order from the Presidential Election Petition Court in Abuja to interrogate the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The LP and Obi are requesting details regarding the information and communication technology (ICT) experts employed by INEC during the election.

The LP and Peter Obi are contesting the declaration made by INEC, which declared Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner of the presidential election. The petitioners are raising concerns about the integrity of the election and seek to gather evidence to support their claims.

To strengthen their petition, the LP and Obi, represented by their lawyer Patrick Ikweto (SAN), have put forth 12 questions to be answered by INEC. These questions focus on the ICT experts utilized by INEC during the election, aiming to shed light on the processes and potential irregularities that may have occurred.

In response to the LP and Obi’s request, counsel for INEC, Kemi Pinhero (SAN), objected to the application on the grounds that it was brought outside the specified time allowed by law. According to Pinhero, moving the application outside the pre-hearing session infringed upon the court’s jurisdiction to hear the matter. Akin Olujimi (SAN), representing Bola Tinubu, and Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), representing the APC, also opposed the request, emphasizing the procedural issues and potential implications of granting such an application.

Presiding Justice Haruna Tsammani reserved the ruling on the interrogatory applications by Obi and the LP. Further hearing in the petition was adjourned to the following day, allowing all parties involved to prepare their arguments and evidence.

On the same day, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Atiku Abubakar, presented their first witness at the Presidential Election Petition Court. This witness, Friday Egwuma, an ad hoc staff of INEC, testified before the court. Egwuma served as the Presiding Officer at Polling Unit 17 in Aba North, Abia State. During cross-examination by A.B. Mahmoud (SAN), counsel for INEC, Egwuma revealed that he encountered technical glitches while attempting to upload the captured presidential results to the INEC Results Viewing Portal. He alleged that the results could not be transmitted electronically in real-time using the Bimodal Voters Accreditation System. However, Egwuma clarified that other results, pertaining to the senatorial and House of Representatives elections, were seamlessly transmitted to the portal.

Prior to Egwuma’s testimony, objections were raised by the respondents regarding the admissibility of his deposition. The court reserved its ruling on the objection, leaving it to be decided during the final judgment of the case.

As the election petition continues to unfold, the LP and Peter Obi’s move to interrogate INEC regarding the ICT experts involved in the election process is a crucial step towards gathering evidence and strengthening their claims of election irregularities. However, objections raised by INEC, Bola Tinubu’s counsel, and the APC indicate the legal complexities surrounding the case. While the LP and Obi seek transparency and accountability, the respondents highlight procedural issues and potential consequences of granting the interrogatory application.

The testimony of Friday Egwuma, the first witness called by the PDP and Atiku Abubakar, further adds to the unfolding narrative. Egwuma, an ad hoc staff of INEC, revealed technical glitches during the upload of presidential results to the INEC Results Viewing Portal. His testimony raises questions about the reliability and effectiveness of the Bimodal Voters Accreditation System in transmitting the results electronically. However, it’s important to note that Egwuma clarified that the challenges were specific to the presidential results, while the senatorial and House of Representatives election results were smoothly transmitted.

The admissibility of Egwuma’s deposition became a subject of contention among the parties involved. The objections raised by the respondents will be considered and ruled upon during the final judgment, further shaping the outcome of the case.

The proceedings in the election petition have captured public attention, given the significance of the presidential election and its potential implications for the political landscape of the nation. The LP and Peter Obi’s pursuit of an order to interrogate INEC reflects their commitment to ensuring transparency and fairness in the electoral process. By seeking information about the ICT experts involved, they aim to shed light on any potential irregularities that may have affected the outcome of the election.

On the other hand, INEC, Bola Tinubu, and the APC have raised objections based on procedural grounds and potential consequences of granting the interrogatory application outside the specified time frame. The court’s ruling on these objections will determine the extent to which the LP and Obi can explore their requested line of inquiry.

As the election petition continues, the court’s decisions and judgments will shape the understanding of the election process and its integrity. The public awaits the outcome.

Opposition to the Petition

The respondents in the petition, INEC, Bola Tinubu, and the APC, have been vocal in their opposition to the petition. They have accused the petitioners of making baseless allegations and of trying to undermine the credibility of the election. They have also argued that the petition is an attempt to overturn the will of the people.

The respondents have raised a number of objections to the petition, including:

  • The petition was filed outside of the statutory time limit.
  • The petition does not provide any evidence of electoral fraud.
  • The petition is an abuse of the court process.

The respondents have also argued that the petition is politically motivated and that the petitioners are simply trying to score political points.

The Future of the Petition

The future of the petition is uncertain. The court has yet to rule on the admissibility of the petition and on the respondents’ objections. If the court finds that the petition is admissible, it will then be up to the petitioners to prove their case. The respondents will then have the opportunity to present their case.

The hearing of the petition is expected to be lengthy and complex. It is possible that the case could go all the way to the Supreme Court. The outcome of the petition could have a significant impact on Nigerian politics. If the petitioners are successful, it could lead to a change in government. If the respondents are successful, it could strengthen the legitimacy of the current government.

The petition is a significant development in Nigerian politics. It is a test of the country’s electoral system and of the rule of law. The outcome of the petition will be closely watched by Nigerians and by the international community.

Christian Maximilian, a Software Engineer with an unwavering love for writing, has transformed his passion into a full-time profession as a Political Analyst. Combining technical expertise with creative flair, he crafts compelling stories that bridge the worlds of politics and literature.

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African Union Takes Action: Republic of Niger Suspended Amidst Political Unrest

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In a decisive move that reverberated across the continent, the African Union (AU) announced the suspension of the Republic of Niger from its membership ranks.

This momentous decision was unveiled during the African Union’s Peace and Security Council meeting held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on Tuesday, August 22.

African Union:Picture Source- Pinterest

The suspension stems from the recent political turmoil that engulfed the nation, with the African Union pointing to the coup orchestrated by Gen Abdourahamane Tchiani on Wednesday, July 26. As part of a series of sanctions imposed on the francophone West African country, the Republic of Niger faced the repercussions of its internal upheaval.

The African Union’s stance was uncompromising, as it made it clear that Western nations seeking to meddle in African affairs should refrain from interfering. This firm message was directed from the heart of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where the AU’s call for autonomy echoed loudly.

The events leading up to Niger’s suspension unfolded against a backdrop of political uncertainty and unrest. The coup in Niger, orchestrated by Gen Abdourahamane Tchiani, prompted the Afican Union to take action. Their decision to suspend Niger was not taken lightly and was ratified during the Peace and Security Council meeting in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on August 22.

The aftermath of the military takeover in left President Mohamed Bazoum in captivity, held under the close watch of the juntas in Niger. Despite international pressure, the release of the president and his family remains elusive. This tense situation compelled the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to intervene, imposing sanctions on Niger and establishing a deadline for the initiation of military intervention by the sub-regional body’s standby forces.

The suspension of the Republic of Niger from the African Union serves as a stark reminder of the continent’s commitment to upholding stability and safeguarding democratic governance. The swift response underscores the African Union’s dedication to maintaining order and security within its member states, sending a resounding message to the global community about the importance of respecting Africa’s sovereignty.

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Peter Obi: “I Campaigned For Presidency Because I Can Say It Any Day, I Will Solve The Problem Of Nigeria”

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In a recent tweet that has caught the attention of many, @MissPearls shares an inspiring declaration made by former Anambra state governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi. According to @MissPearls, Peter Obi proclaimed, “I campaigned for Presidency because I can say it any day, I Will SOLVE THE PROBLEM OF NIGERIA. All these confusion everywhere can BE SOLVED, and I am PREPARED for it”

Peter Obi: I Campaigned For Presidency Because I Can Say It Any Day, I Will Solve The Problem Of Nigeria.

Peter Obi’s bid for the presidency in the recent elections stirred considerable excitement and garnered support from diverse quarters, particularly the youth demographic. The former governor is known for his progressive ideas and pragmatic approach to governance, which resonated with many Nigerians who sought change and effective solutions to the country’s myriad challenges.

Despite his extensive support and well-articulated vision, Peter Obi’s presidential ambitions faced formidable opponents in the election. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) released results that placed him behind the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who emerged as the winner, and Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who came second. However, these results were met with skepticism due to apparent electoral irregularities that marred the integrity of the process.

In response to the controversial election outcome, both Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar filed legal challenges against the INEC’s declaration. This move underscores their commitment to upholding the democratic process and ensuring that the voice of the electorate is accurately reflected. As the election Tribunal Judges prepare to deliver their verdict, Nigeria watches with bated breath, eager to witness justice being served.

Meanwhile, the administration of Mr. Bola Ahmed Tinubu has taken significant policy actions since assuming office. The removal of fuel subsidies and the decision to float the Naira have triggered mixed reactions across the nation. While these measures may be intended to foster economic stability and growth, the immediate consequences have been felt by everyday Nigerians. The cost of living has surged, and the socio-economic effects on the rich and the poor have become more pronounced.

As the Nigerian population navigates these shifts, the aftermath of the election and the ensuing governance strategies offer a critical juncture for evaluating the nation’s trajectory. The voices of discontent, expressed by citizens facing the brunt of these policies, highlight the necessity for leaders to prioritize the well-being of the populace while pursuing economic advancements. It is essential for the government to strike a balance between fiscal prudence and safeguarding the interests of the vulnerable segments of society.

The policy changes implemented by Bola Tinubu have shed light on the delicate balance between progress and the welfare of the people. As the nation waits for the tribunal’s judgment and the dust settles on the recent election, Nigeria stands at a crossroads, with the potential to reshape its future trajectory and address the systemic challenges that have held it back for far too long.

Fore more updates, follow us on Twitter @ReporteraNews.

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Youths in Kano Defy Police Ban to Protest Alleged Tribunal Bribery

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Hundreds of determined youths in Kano took to the streets, defying a police ban, to protest what they perceive as attempts to manipulate the state election petition tribunal. This incident unfolded against the backdrop of a ban on protests by the Commissioner of Police, Usuani Gumel, following revelations of alleged plots to obstruct justice through financial inducement in legal proceedings.

Youths in kano

The rally, which unfolded outside the state government house, saw impassioned youths brandishing placards with messages that underscored their commitment to justice and the integrity of the electoral process. Their actions were sparked by concerns over an alleged plan to bribe the state election petition tribunal, casting a shadow over the fairness of the process.

The ban on protests was issued in response to recent revelations made by Justice Flora Azinge, who unveiled purported schemes by lawyers to disrupt the course of justice through financial incentives. The Commissioner of Police cited “confirmatory intelligence products” as the basis for this decision, leaving a contentious atmosphere surrounding the freedom of assembly and the right to peaceful protest.

This ban, however, failed to deter the resolute youths who carried a variety of placards conveying their strong stance against corruption, manipulation, and injustice. The slogans they chanted resonated with their determination to safeguard the sanctity of the electoral process and uphold transparency in governance.

Among the messages displayed, one placard caught the eye with its direct callout: “Gandollar, stop spoiling the name of Tinubu.” This highlights the allegation that financial impropriety is tainting the reputation of key political figures.

In a video circulated online, the enthusiastic protesters chanted slogans that echoed their deep-seated concerns. Chants of “No to corruption,” “No to injustice,” and “No to manipulation” reverberated through the crowd, embodying the youth’s unwavering commitment to fair and accountable governance.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf praised the peaceful conduct of the protesters and assured them that their concerns would be relayed to President Bola Tinubu. This gesture recognizes the role of the youth in shaping political discourse and underscores the importance of their voices in the pursuit of a just society.

In conclusion, the youths in Kano have seized the moment to voice their concerns and demands for an unbiased electoral process. Their defiance of the police ban serves as a reminder that public sentiment cannot be easily suppressed. As this incident unfolds, it raises important questions about the delicate balance between freedom of assembly, legitimate protest, and maintaining public order. It also underscores the critical role of the youth in shaping the political landscape and demanding accountability from their leaders.

For the latest news updates, follow us on Twitter @ReporterNews. Stay informed and engaged with evolving stories from all around the world.

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