Ibadan, Nigeria – APC Loses to PDP at tribunal in Oyo State. The National Assembly Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Ibadan has made a significant ruling, dismissing a petition brought forward by Hon. Ajibola Muraina, the APC House of Representatives candidate in Ibarapa Central/North ward constituency. Muraina had challenged the victory of the PDP candidate, Dr. Anthony Adepoju, in the February 25 general elections.
The tribunal, in its decision delivered on Tuesday, cited the petition as frivolous and lacking merit, ultimately siding with Dr. Anthony Adepoju and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
In his petition, Hon. Ajibola Muraina alleged non-compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act and over-voting in three wards, which he claimed favored Dr. Adepoju’s victory.
However, the tribunal determined that the petitioner was unable to establish the claims made in the petition and failed to prove the alleged over-voting in the three mentioned wards. As a result, the tribunal not only dismissed the case but also imposed a substantial fine of N1.5 million against Hon. Ajibola Muraina.
The fine includes payments of N500,000 each to Dr. Anthony Adepoju, the PDP, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). This decision reflects the tribunal’s confidence in the legitimacy of the election results.
Reacting to the tribunal’s verdict, Mr. Sola Adeleke, the PDP Chairmanship candidate in Ibarapa Central Local Government, expressed his congratulations to Dr. Anthony Adepoju, the PDP family in the constituency, and the entire state of Oyo. He described the tribunal’s decision as a victory for democracy, emphasizing that it reaffirmed the PDP’s status as the party to beat in the Ibarapa zone and Oyo State.
Adeleke further encouraged the public to have faith in the PDP’s prospects in the forthcoming Local Government election, assuring them of victory. He called on the people to remain steadfast and hopeful, inspiring confidence among the party’s supporters as a crucial election approaches.
In the wake of this ruling, supporters of the PDP have lauded Mr. Sola Adeleke for his unwavering confidence and commitment to the party’s cause. They view his resolute stance as a rallying cry for PDP supporters, instilling hope and determination as they prepare for the upcoming election.
The tribunal’s decision marks a significant development in the political landscape of Ibarapa Central/North ward constituency, setting the stage for heightened anticipation ahead of the Local Government election.
