Security measures were significantly escalated in Enugu on Thursday ahead of the Enugu State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal’s judgment regarding the March 18 governorship election in the state. The petition was filed by Chijioke Edeoga, the candidate of the Labour Party, who contested the result of the election after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Peter Mbah of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the elected governor.
Led by Justice Kudirat Morayo, the three-member panel of the tribunal was responsible for delivering the judgment. In anticipation of any potential violent protests, operatives of the police’s Rapid Response Squad were stationed at strategic locations. The tribunal premises also saw the presence of nine Toyota Hilux vans and three Armoured Personal Carriers (APCs). Furthermore, approximately 50 police personnel, soldiers, State Security Service (SSS), and Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) operatives were visibly scattered in various formations around the vicinity.
When contacted, Enugu State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, informed the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the heightened security presence in the area, as well as in strategic locations across Enugu, was a routine measure to ensure the safety of all individuals involved in the proceedings, both before and after the verdict had been delivered.
As we eagerly await the tribunal’s decision, the consequences of this judgment will have a significant impact on the political landscape of Enugu State. Rest assured, Media Talk Africa will keep you informed with timely updates. Stay tuned to our channels for the latest news surrounding this important development.
NAN
