The Enugu election petitions tribunal has issued its verdict in the case brought forth by the People’s Redemption Party (PRP) against Governor Peter Mbah. The tribunal, after careful deliberation, has dismissed PRP’s petition, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing legal battle.
PRP had levelled two critical accusations against Governor Mbah. Firstly, they alleged that the governor had a history as an ex-convict, having entered into a plea bargain with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in the past. Secondly, PRP pleaded for Governor Mbah’s disqualification on the grounds of a forged NYSC discharge certificate.
The tribunal’s decision hinged on several crucial factors. Firstly, it cited the inability of the petitioner to provide certified true copies of the alleged documents, emphasizing the need for authentic evidence. Photocopies of documents were deemed insufficient to support such serious allegations.
Furthermore, the tribunal found fault with the PRP’s failure to present polling agents’ results, a fundamental aspect of election petitions. The petitioner’s inability to furnish polling data, including PRP’s score in the unit where he voted, was noted, with the tribunal suggesting that the reliance on “oral hearsay” for such critical information was inadequate.
Governor Peter Mbah emerges from this tribunal verdict with his reputation intact, as the allegations against him have been dismissed. This outcome sets the stage for further developments in Enugu’s political landscape, as the state continues to chart its course under his leadership.
