In the ongoing Nasarawa State Governorship Election Tribunal, the lead counsel of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Ombugadu DR J S OKUTEPA (SAN), presented his case today, August 17, 2023.
The first subpoenaed witness, the HOD of INEC ICT for Nasarawa State, provided documents, notably BVAS screenshots printouts from affected polling units. However, only two out of the expected five copies were presented, with the witness claiming the missing three are unaccounted for.
The second witness, a pivotal figure, PDP’s State Collation Agent Barr Ayiwulu Baba Ayiwulu, took the stand. He highlighted documents originating from the INEC BVAS IREV which were not collated according to the INEC Guidelines for the 2023 General Elections. These documents pertained to various electoral wards and constituencies across the state.
Specifically, Ayiwulu pointed out discrepancies in the collation process, including Form EC8As, EC8Bs, and related documents for both the Governorship and State Assembly results in multiple areas. He further stated that the scores from Form EC8As were inaccurately reflected in Form EC8Bs for certain wards, while results from Form EC8A of Ashige ward were unlawfully nullified.
During cross-examination, the witness, who attested to numerous irregularities and human errors in the last Governorship elections, implored the tribunal to use the original and certified copies to ensure accurate compilation of results. He emphasized the importance of utilizing the authentic Form EC8AS to declare the rightful candidate.
Ayiwulu meticulously analyzed the results of the State Assembly Elections for Lafia Central, pointing out disparities in accreditation.
After the PDP’s presentation, their lead counsel, DR J S OKUTEPA SAN, announced the closure of their case, signaling readiness for the defense from the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd respondents. The first respondent, INEC, represented by Lead Counsel Isiaka Dikko (SAN), expressed readiness for their defense.
The INEC’s defense is scheduled to commence on August 18, 2023, marking another pivotal stage in the proceedings. The tribunal continues to scrutinize and assess the evidence presented, with implications for the outcome of the Nasarawa State Governorship Election. Stay tuned for further developments on this significant legal matter.
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