The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially acknowledged that Atiku and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) emerged as the winners in 21 out of 36 states during the February 25 presidential election.
Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, has also urged the presidential election tribunal to declare Atiku the rightful winner, stating that he genuinely won the election.
Atiku, in response to Tinubu’s arguments against nullifying the election results based on the interpretation of the 25 percent of votes in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), asserted that such a verdict wouldn’t lead to chaos in the country.
At this stage, it is crucial to note that the Second Respondent’s Final Written Address reflects a complete misconception and misunderstanding of the Petitioners’ case, according to Atiku.
Lead counsel to Atiku and PDP, Chief Chris Uche, emphasized the need for a proactive approach in interpreting new laws and utilizing technology to maintain transparency and integrity in constitutional democracy.
The Electoral Act 2022 aims to revolutionize election management and dispute resolution, addressing concerns about flawed election cycles.
Atiku and PDP have assured the panel that they prioritize substantial justice over technicalities in the consideration of the petitions.
Uche urges the court to embrace technological advancements in handling the burden of proof, enabling a departure from traditional methods of calling physical witnesses from polling units.
Having called 27 witnesses and presented documentary and video evidence, Atiku and PDP have demonstrated deliberate non-compliance by INEC with the mandatory mode of transmission and collation of results.
Tinubu’s claim to victory lacks substantial support, with only one witness failing to prove that the Second Respondent secured 25 percent of the votes in the FCT.
The Third Respondent (APC) faces accusations of abandoning its pleadings by failing to call any witness in defense of the petition.
Atiku contends that the Second Respondent’s final address violates the mandatory provisions of the Election Judicial Proceedings Practice Directions, 2023, urging the tribunal to strike it out.
In conclusion, Atiku calls on the tribunal to uphold the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) and asserts the significance of nullifying the Second Respondent’s return to ensure justice prevails.
May our law and our country progress and embrace justice, not standing still while the rest of the world moves forward.
