Jennifer Thompson
Sun, Sep 10, 2023 5:30 PMNational Assembly Election Petitions Tribunal Sacks Another LP Representative in Enugu
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Enugu, Enugu state - The National Assembly Election Petitions Tribunal sitting in Enugu has once again sent shockwaves through the political landscape, as another Labour Party (LP) representative has been sacked. Just a day after the tribunal nullified the election of Prof. Paul Nnamchi, a chieftain of the LP, Chijioke Okereke, who represented Aninri/Awgu/Oji-River federal constituency, has tasted the same fate.
The three-man panel, headed by Justice Nusirat Umar, declared Anayo Onwuegbu, the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), as the rightful winner of the February 25, 2023 poll. The decision was made following Onwuegbu's petition, which challenged the legitimacy of Okereke's victory.
Onwuegbu claimed that Okereke was a "stranger" to the election, as his name did not appear on the result sheet as the official LP candidate. The panel upheld this argument, stating that Okereke was not a valid candidate for the election, thus compelling the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to issue a certificate of return to the PDP candidate.
This recent ruling further amplifies the atmosphere of uncertainty and instability that often accompanies election disputes. It also highlights the increasing importance of electoral transparency. The decision of the National Assembly Election Petitions Tribunal in Enugu demonstrates a commitment to upholding the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring that only candidates who meet the necessary requirements are declared winners.
In a related development, the election petition tribunal sitting in Markudi also made significant decisions. Emmanuel Udende of the All Progressives Congress (APC) was removed from his position, with the tribunal declaring Senator Gabriel Suswam of the PDP as the victor of the Senatorial election for Benue North East Senatorial District. The tribunal's decision came as a result of the cancellation of votes in 94 polling units during the said election.
These recent rulings by the various tribunal bodies exemplify the potential consequences of election irregularities. The judiciary plays a crucial role in ensuring that electoral processes remain fair and transparent. By voiding the victories of candidates who were not properly nominated or denying those who engaged in electoral misconduct, the tribunals reinforce the principle that every vote should count and that the will of the people should prevail.
As we await the aftermath of these tribunal decisions, it is essential that all stakeholders in the political arena, especially the political parties and their candidates, strive to adhere strictly to the rules governing elections. It is incumbent upon them to ensure that only qualified and eligible individuals are selected as candidates, and that the electoral process remains free from any form of malpractice.
These recent events also serve as a reminder to the general public of the importance of participating actively in the electoral process. It is crucial for citizens to exercise their right to vote and choose candidates who they believe will best serve their interests. By making informed decisions and actively engaging in the selection of our leaders, we can collectively contribute to the development and progress of our society.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, it is imperative for everyone involved to respect the decisions of the tribunals and work towards a more transparent and accountable system. Only with a strong commitment to democratic values and a genuine desire for progress can we build a prosperous and equitable nation.
Source of content: OOO News 2023-09-10 News
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