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The Supreme Court of Nigeria is gearing up to pronounce judgments this Friday on appeals challenging election outcomes in pivotal states, including Ogun, Gombe, Kebbi, Kaduna, Nasarawa, and Delta. The rulings follow last week's decisions that determined the fate of 10 state governors in a series of cases.
One case drawing considerable attention is Nasarawa State. Amid concerns of potential post-verdict unrest, both the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have inked a peace agreement. The tribunal initially removed Governor Abdullahi Sule, declaring David Ombugadu of the PDP the winner of the March 18, 2023 election. However, the appeal court reinstated Sule, asserting that the tribunal erred in relying on the evidence of eight PDP witnesses, whose statements were not presented alongside the petition.
Also facing scrutiny is the Delta State governorship appeal, where Ken Pella of the Labour Party and Ovie Omo-Agege of the APC contested Sheriff Oborevwori's victory.
In Ogun, Ladi Adebutu of the PDP is challenging Governor Dapo Abiodun's victory.
Adding to the tension, the roads leading to the Supreme Court have been cordoned off from the Head of Civil Service office. Accredited litigants, journalists, and party supporters underwent rigorous security checks before gaining access to the court premises.
At the time of reporting, security operatives are grappling with the challenge of controlling the sizable crowd gathered to observe the proceedings, intensifying the atmosphere of anticipation and speculation.
