Tribunal Commences Hearing of Petition Against Akeredolu Victory

The Ondo state governorship election petition tribunal has commenced hearing in the case of the PDP and its candidate Eyitayo Jegede against the victory of governor Rotimi Akeredolu in the October 10 election.

The chairman of the tribunal, Justice Umar Abubakar had on December the 17th, 2020 adjourned hearing till January the 12th, 2021.

At the hearing, the petitioners lead counsel, Onyechi Ipeazu sought to tender documents that would their case which was marked as exhibits.

The documents include APC constitution, the result of the October 10 governorship election, APC nomination letter signed by governor Mai Mala Buni among others.

The petitioner thereafter called its first witness, the candidate of the pdp in the october 10 governorship election, Eyitayo Jegede.

Jegede told the tribunal that he is challenging the outcome of the election based on the violation of sections 177(c) and 183 of the nigerian constitution and the invalidity of the sponsorship of Akeredolu’s candidacy.

He said governor Akeredolu was wrongly allotted score owe to the invalidity of his nomination.

The court had earlier increase the number of legal representation for each team to 7 from 5 which was allowed during pre trial due to the covid-19 pandemic.

Counsels to APC, Lateef Fagbemi and counsel to INEC, Charles Edosomwan expressed satisfaction with the proceedings

The case has been adjourned till tomorrow for continuation of hearing.

The petitioners have listed over 400 witnesses to prove their case.