The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) faced a setback as it failed to resume its defense following a 10-day break. Daniel Bwala, a vocal commentator, took to Twitter, revealing that the reason behind this delay was the non-appearance of witnesses. The absence of these key witnesses has raised questions about the transparency and credibility of the electoral process. INEC is now under scrutiny to address these concerns and ensure a fair and thorough defense.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was unable to present its case on Monday in the ongoing petition filed by Mr Peter Obi, the Presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), and his party against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The absence of a crucial witness led to the delay in proceedings at the Presidential Election Petition Court (PEPC), which is being held at the Court of Appeal in Abuja.
Last week, the PEPC had adjourned the case until Monday to allow INEC, the first respondent in the petition, an opportunity to present its defense regarding the presidential election that took place on February 25, 2023. However, during the court session, Abubakar Mahmoud (SAN), the lead counsel for INEC, informed the court that their scheduled witness was not present due to unforeseen circumstances. As a result, he requested an adjournment until Tuesday to provide INEC with sufficient time to present its case in response to the joint petition filed by Obi and the Labour Party against Tinubu’s election.
The absence of the witness has caused a delay in the proceedings, and the court has granted the request for an adjournment until the following day. This adjournment will provide INEC with an opportunity to prepare and present its defense regarding the conduct and outcome of the presidential election in question. The PEPC will reconvene on Tuesday to resume the proceedings and allow INEC to present its case.
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