The Kogi State Election Petition Tribunal, which convened in Abuja, decided to postpone further proceedings until April 1. The panel, headed by Justice Ado Birnin-Kudu, made this decision following the testimonies of six witnesses from the Social Democratic Party (SDP) who were cross-examined by the defense counsel.
During the hearing, it was revealed that the witnesses’ testimonies contradicted their sworn statements, with some admitting that they were not polling agents as required by law but rather voters. One witness, Yakubu Dahiru, claimed to have vision problems, yet insisted that he had prepared his witness deposition.
Another witness, Isah AbdulGaniu, disclosed that he was not affiliated with the SDP or a polling agent, contradicting his earlier statements. He also denied knowledge of Form DCE-41, which was mentioned in his deposition.
Several witnesses admitted errors in their statements, attributing them to mistakes or a lack of knowledge. Some confessed to dictating their statements to their lawyers and memorizing them before appearing in court.
Despite having their names, petition numbers, and lawyers’ information on the petitions, some witnesses claimed ignorance about the petitioners and their legal representatives. The testimonies of the six witnesses were consistent yet conflicting, prompting the petitioners’ lawyer to request an adjournment.
Consequently, the tribunal adjourned the hearing until April 1 to allow for further proceedings. Legal representatives from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Governor Usman Ododo, and other parties were present during the session.
