As the Presidential Election Tribunal readies itself to deliver a momentous verdict, all eyes are fixed on President Bola Tinubu’s destiny. Interestingly, this pivotal judgment coincides with his 100th day in office – a symbolic milestone for any president. However, instead of celebrating early accomplishments, President Tinubu finds himself in suspense, awaiting the tribunal’s final determination of his electoral victory.
The path leading to this juncture has been filled with political drama and high-stakes maneuvers. Following the Independent National Electoral Commission’s announcement of Tinubu as the winner of the 2023 presidential election on March 1, 2023, five political parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP), filed petitions challenging the results.
In the PDP camp, Director of Strategy and Research Pedro Obaseki expressed confidence that the tribunal would carefully scrutinize the evidence presented by opposition parties in their petitions. The PDP contends that the election outcome should be overturned based on the facts and evidence at hand.
Julius Abure, the LP National Chairman, echoed this sentiment, accusing the All Progressive Congress (APC) of usurping a mandate rightfully given to his party by the Nigerian people. He conveyed his expectation that Peter Obi, the LP candidate, would emerge victorious.
On the other side, President Tinubu’s camp radiates unwavering confidence. Ajuri Ngelale, the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, asserted that Tinubu remains undisturbed by the judgment’s outcome. Ngelale cited their belief in presenting a robust case with compelling evidence and the support of an adept legal team.
At the core of the matter lie multifaceted demands from the LP’s Peter Obi and the PDP’s Atiku Abubakar. They argue that Tinubu’s election should be nullified on grounds of ineligibility, failure to secure 25 percent of votes in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and alleged irregularities. Both parties seek a fresh election, hoping for a different outcome.
The tribunal comprises five justices, each bringing their unique background and legal experience to the table. Justice Haruna Tsammani, Justice Stephen Adah, Justice Monsurat Bolaji-Yusuf, Justice Moses Ugo, and Justice Abba Mohammed are tasked with rendering the critical verdict. Each justice brings their own legal acumen and experience to the tribunal, having handled various cases throughout their careers. Their decision will shape the course of Nigeria’s political landscape.
As the tribunal’s verdict looms, President Tinubu and the nation await the judgment that could redefine Nigeria’s political future. At least 25 state governors are also marking their 100th day in office while anxiously awaiting tribunal verdicts on various election petitions. The countdown to a momentous decision continues, with the destiny of a nation hanging in the balance.