SDP Faces Setback at Kogi Guber Election Tribunal Over Witness Contradictions, Health Concerns »

In a riveting continuation of proceedings at the Election Petition Tribunal, the spotlight fell on the testimonies of four witnesses representing the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the contested Kogi State Governorship election. Hailing from Adavi Local Government Area, these witnesses took the stand, each offering their account of the election events.

However, what unfolded in the courtroom was a tale of conflicting narratives and unexpected revelations. Despite their shared origin, the witnesses diverged in their testimonies, raising eyebrows among tribunal attendees.

While initially aligned with their sworn depositions, the witnesses deviated during cross-examination, disavowing statements and claiming unfamiliarity with the contents of their own affidavits. The discrepancy between their written testimonies and oral assertions added a layer of intrigue to the proceedings, casting doubt on the credibility of their accounts.

One witness, Rufai Muhammed, ignited controversy when confronted with contradictions in his deposition regarding voter accreditation. Initially denying the validity of his sworn statement, he later recanted, further complicating the tribunal’s efforts to ascertain the truth.

Another witness, Yakubu Abdul Azeez, sparked intrigue with his testimony regarding alleged over-voting. However, his claim of standing for hours during the election, despite health concerns dating back to 2008, raised skepticism among tribunal members and observers alike.

Similarly, Hamza Abdul Azeez’s admission of writing a complaint letter alleging over-voting raised questions when he could not provide crucial details about party vote counts in his polling unit.

The revelation that the witnesses’ depositions were drafted by their lawyers added another layer of complexity to the proceedings, with uncertainty surrounding the authors’ identities further clouding the testimonial landscape.

In light of the contentious testimonies and emerging discrepancies, JS Okutepa SAN, representing the petitioners, sought an adjournment to allow for further examination. The tribunal granted the request, scheduling the continuation of hearings for April 2.

Representatives from key stakeholders, including Kanu Agabi SAN for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Ibrahim Sani Muhammed SAN for Governor Usman Ododo, and Abdul Wahab Muhammed SAN for the All Progressives Congress (APC), were present to observe and advocate for their respective interests.

As the saga unfolds, the credibility of witness testimonies and the integrity of the electoral process hang in the balance, underscoring the importance of a thorough and transparent investigation into the contested Kogi State Governorship election.