The Ondo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Akure, has promised to be fair to all parties, urging them to be logical in prosecution of their cases.
Chairman of the three-man panel, Justice Umar Abubakar gave the assurance at the inaugural sitting of the tribunal, at the state high court complex in Akure, the state capital.
On October 11, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, declared Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of the All Progressives Congress, APC, winner of the State Governorship election.
His closest challenger and candidate of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, Eyitayo Jegede SAN, was not satisfied with the outcome and decided to challenge it on three grounds.
These include claims that Governor Akeredolu was not validly nominated by his party, the APC and that the election was marred by violence, as well as over voting.
Chairman of the tribunal, Justice Umar Abubakar sought the cooperation of parties in the petition, for speedy hearing of the case.
Counsel to all parties vowed to support smooth hearing of the case before the Tribunal.
Justice Abubakar adjourned sitting of the tribunal till 11th of January, 2021 for commencement of hearing.
(Editor: Nkoli Omhoudu)
