According to THE PUNCH, security was significantly heightened at the Court of Appeal, Three Arms Zone, Abuja, in anticipation of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal (PEPT) judgment regarding President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s victory, with the verdict scheduled for today.
Supporters of Atiku Abubakar (PDP), Peter Obi (LP), and President Tinubu eagerly awaited the decision, engaging in online exchanges.
To prevent potential post-judgment disturbances, armed riot police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and undercover security personnel were strategically placed throughout the Federal Capital Territory.
The tribunal’s Chairman, Justice Haruna Tsammani, and other panel members will announce their critical decision today.
In a bid for transparency, the Chief Registrar of the Court of Appeal headquarters, Umar Bangari, revealed that the verdict would be broadcast live on television.
On March 1, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Tinubu the president-elect, defeating Atiku and Obi, among others.
Five out of the 18 political parties that participated in the election contested the results, including the PDP and LP, who aimed to nullify Tinubu’s victory.
Presidential contender Ms, Atiku, Tinubu and Obi
Ahead of Wednesdays’ proceedings, security personnel were heavily deployed in the FCT, with police vehicles barricading the court entrance and patrolling the city.
There will likely be security checks for lawyers and litigants entering the courtroom, with tight control over access to the premises.
Agents were strategically stationed across the city, and major roads leading to the Court of Appeal will be blocked.
In anticipation of potential protests, the acting Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, issued security measures across the country, particularly in Abuja and Lagos.
The police emphasized their commitment to maintaining order, respecting citizens’ rights, and cautioned political figures to be careful with their statements.
The Nigerian Police Force urged all citizens to embrace peace, regardless of their political affiliations, to ensure a peaceful and secure environment.
ChatterBoxx (
)
