The Supreme Court is set to deliver final judgments in 13 gubernatorial election cases on Friday, January 19, 2024, in compliance with the Constitution’s time-bound nature of political cases. According to the law, these cases must be concluded within 60 days, after which they become statute barred.
Among the states awaiting verdicts are Nasarawa, Delta, Ogun, Gombe, and Kebbi. The outcomes of these judgments will determine whether the incumbent governors will remain in office or not, making it a crucial moment for the states involved.
The legal battles involve several political parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Labour Party (LP), and Social Democratic Party (SDP), along with their respective governorship candidates.
In Delta State, Gbagi Kenneth Omemavwa (SDP), Omo-Agege Ovie Augustine (APC), and Pella Kwahariebie Kennedy (LP) are challenging the election of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. Similarly, Emmanuel David Ombugadu (PDP) is contesting the victory of Sule Audu Abdullahi (APC) in Nasarawa State.
Adebutu Oladipupo Olatunde (PDP) is seeking to overturn the victory of Abiodun Adedapo Oluseun (APC) as the governor of Ogun State. In Gombe State, Jibrin Muhammed Barde (PDP) is challenging the election of Mohammed Inuwa Yahaya.
The Supreme Court has confirmed that all necessary security arrangements have been made for the judgment delivery, with strict measures to control access to the courtroom. Only accredited political party leaders and journalists will be allowed into the premises, with the Department of State Service (DSS) responsible for screening.
The judgments are expected to be significant, potentially reshaping the political landscape in these states. The decisions will be closely watched as they could have far-reaching implications for the political future of the states involved.
Daily Post