PEPT Judgement: I must confess that the Judgment delivered by the Tribunal is unassailable-Nwobike

According to Punch papers ewspaper The recent judgement by the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal dismissing cases brought by Peter Obi of the Labour Party, Atiku Abubakar of the PDP, and others has generated mixed reactions across Nigeria.

The opposition parties had challenged the victory of APC candidate Bola Tinubu in the February 25th presidential polls. However, the five-judge panel upheld Tinubu’s win, striking down the petitions.

While some have critiqued the judgement, others argue it was well-reasoned. Supporters of Tinubu have largely praised the ruling.

Senior Advocate of Nigeria Dr. Joseph Nwobike described the decision as “unassailable”, saying the interpretation was consistent with judicial precedent. He stated the basis for resolving the legal and factual issues formulated by the parties aligned with established case law on all points.

Meanwhile, critics claim the judgement demonstrates deficiencies in Nigeria’s electoral and judicial systems. They argue the opposition did not receive fair consideration of their grievances. Some allege bias or undue influence on the judges. Obi’s Labour Party declared they would appeal the “flawed ruling”. The PDP also rejected the verdict, calling it a “direct assault on democratic norms”.

Despite discordant views on the tribunal’s verdict, the judgement represents a major step towards concluding the 2023 election cycle. Pending appeal outcomes, the ruling cements Tinubu’s status as president-elect.

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