In anticipation of the highly anticipated verdict in the presidential election petitions challenging President Bola Tinubu’s election, the Court of Appeal has taken measures to ensure a peaceful and secure session.
Umar Bangari, the Chief Registrar of the Court, initially announced the decision of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal to deliver its judgment on September 6. In an effort to enhance transparency and openness, it was revealed that the judgments would be televised live by interested television stations for the public’s benefit.
However, in a subsequent memo signed by Oluwaleye David on behalf of the Chief Registrar, all staff members of the Court’s headquarters and Abuja division have been instructed to stay at home on Wednesday, September 6, 2023. This directive aims to create a conducive and peaceful atmosphere for the special sitting of the presidential election tribunal petition at the Abuja division of the Court of Appeal.
To maintain security, stringent measures have been put in place, including enhanced security at the court’s entrance and throughout the court complex. Only individuals with proper accreditation, including legal counsel and representatives of political parties, will be allowed access to the courtroom.
Members of the public interested in following the proceedings are advised to do so from the comfort of their television sets. It’s worth noting that Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Peter Obi of the Labour Party (LP), and the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) are challenging President Tinubu’s victory in the February 25 election.