Abia news on 2019 election tribunal

Here are some news updates on the 2019 election tribunal in Abia State:

INEC Declares PDP's Okezie Ikpeazu Winner of Abia Governorship Election

On March 9, 2019, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Okezie Ikpeazu, the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), as the winner of the Abia State governorship election. Ikpeazu polled 261,127 votes to defeat his closest rival, Uche Ogah of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who scored 169,833 votes.

APC's Uche Ogah Challenges INEC's Declaration

However, Uche Ogah of the APC challenged the declaration, citing irregularities and alleged rigging. He petitioned the Election Petitions Tribunal, claiming that the election was marred by fraud and that he was the rightful winner.

Tribunal Hears Ogah's Petition

On July 22, 2019, the Abia State Election Petitions Tribunal began hearing Ogah's petition. The tribunal, led by Justice A.T. Mohammed, heard arguments from both parties and adjourned the case to August 12, 2019, for further hearing.

Ikpeazu's Response to Ogah's Petition

In response to Ogah's petition, Ikpeazu's counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), argued that the petition was frivolous and lacked merit. He contended that the election was free and fair, and that Ogah's claims of irregularities were baseless.

Tribunal Delivers Judgment

On October 22, 2019, the Abia State Election Petitions Tribunal delivered its judgment, upholding INEC's declaration of Okezie Ikpeazu as the winner of the governorship election. The tribunal dismissed Ogah's petition, citing lack of evidence to support his claims of irregularities and rigging.

Ogah's Appeal

Ogah's counsel, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), announced that they would appeal the tribunal's judgment to the Court of Appeal. The appeal was filed on November 12, 2019.

Current Status

As of now, the appeal is still pending before the Court of Appeal. The outcome of the appeal will determine the final outcome of the 2019 Abia State governorship election.

Please note that these news updates are based on publicly available information and may not reflect the current status of the case.