Tribunal Warns Against Use Of Technicalities To Delay Petitions

The Ebonyi Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Abakaliki has advised parties not to rely on unnecessary legal technicalities to delay the quick dispensation of justice.

The Tribunal Chairman, Justice Theresa Igoche, gave the advice when she granted an application for substituted service on Ebonyi Governor-Elect, Chief Dave Umahi, and the state Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Igoche ordered the petitioner to serve Umahi at his hometown, Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area and PDP by pasting the process at the gate of its secretariat in Abakaliki.

“This tribunal will ensure that all petitions before it are treated on merit and ensure a level playing ground for all parties to ensure that justice prevails,” she said.

She said the tribunal would resist attempts to induce its members with cash or other forms of gratifications, and would ensure that perpetrators were exposed and severely punished.

The chairman, however, solicited the cooperation of the parties and their lawyers to ensure quick dispensation of justice within the stipulated period.

Chief Edward Nkwegu of Labour Party had challenged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declaration of Umahi as winner of the polls. Nkwegu joined PDP as co-respondents.

The petitioner, in a six-point relief, wanted the tribunal to nullify INEC’s declaration of Umahi as winner of the April 11 governorship on the grounds that he was not duly elected by majority of lawful votes.

He contended that the election was marred by widespread irregularities and substantial non-compliant with provisions of the Electoral Act 2010 (As amended) and INEC guidelines for the elections.

Nkwegu further urged the tribunal to either declare him winner of the election or in the alternative, cancel results and order a fresh election.