Peter Obi, Atiku, President Tinubu absent as Presidential election tribunal begins
The highly anticipated presidential tribunal ruling commenced today, Wednesday, September 6, 2023, in Abuja, Nigeria.
The panel of judges, consisting of Justice Adah, Justice Bolaji-Yusuf, Justice Ugo, Justice Bello, and Justice Tsammani, arrived at the courtroom by 9:30 AM.
Despite the absence of key petitioners and respondents, including Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, and President Bola Tinubu at the time the court began sitting, the courtroom was abuzz with political heavyweights, legal practitioners, and supporters from both sides of the political spectrum.
Julius Abure, Chairman of the Labour Party, and the party’s presidential campaign spokesman, Yunusa Tanko, were among the attendees, representing their party’s interests at the tribunal.
On the All Progressives Congress (APC) side, several prominent figures were present, including the APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who is a respondent in both Peter Obi and Atiku’s petitions, was also spotted at the tribunal.
Also in attendance were the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, and the Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila.
Several APC governors were also present to show their support, including Yahaya Bello of Kogi, Abdullahi Sule of Nassarawa, Hope Uzodimma of Imo, Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti, and Mai Mala Buni of Yobe.
The tribunal proceedings are expected to be closely watched, as they could potentially have far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s political future.
