PEPT Verdict: Court Official Reveals Why Workers Were Told Not to Come to Work on Wednesday
As reported by THE PUNCH, heightened security measures were implemented 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, scheduled for today.
A court official confirmed that the decision to advise workers not to come to work on Wednesday was influenced by the heavy presence of security personnel around the court premises.
The official stated, “One of the reasons workers were told not to come in tomorrow (today) was due to the heavy presence of security operatives in strategic locations at the court premises.”
Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), declared Tinubu the president-elect on March 1, 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 sought to nullify Tinubu’s victory.
To prevent potential post-judgment disturbances, armed riot police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and undercover security personnel were strategically positioned throughout the Federal Capital Territory.
Security preparations included deploying security personnel across the FCT, with police vehicles barricading the court entrance and patrolling the city. Lawyers and litigants may undergo security checks before entering the courtroom, with strict control over access to the premises.
Major roads leading to the Court of Appeal will be blocked by the police before the court proceedings commence.
The acting Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, issued orders for all police commands and formations to secure major hotspots, aiming to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
The police conducted covert deployments of operatives and equipment across the nation, particularly in Abuja and Lagos State, in response to concerns about potential protests instigated by disgruntled political elements.
In preparation for the possible aftermath of the judgment, the police assured that all necessary deployments and security measures were in place. They emphasized their commitment to maintaining order while respecting citizens’ rights and freedoms.
The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumiyiwa Adejobi, cautioned against actions and statements that could incite violence or chaos. He urged all citizens to embrace peace, regardless of their political affiliations, to ensure a peaceful and secure environment.
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