The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) presented crucial electoral documents against the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and its candidate, Murtala Ajaka, at the Kogi State Governorship Petition Tribunal in Abuja. The SDP and Ajaka are contesting INEC’s declaration of incumbent governor Usman Ododo, of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as the winner of the November 11, 2023, governorship election.

Ododo emerged victorious with 446,237 votes, defeating Ajaka who garnered 259,052 votes. The petitioners concluded their case on April 6, 2024, after calling 25 witnesses.

During the recent proceedings, INEC initiated their case by submitting various documents before a panel of three justices, led by Justice Ado Birnin-Kudu. The documents included INEC Regulations and Guidelines for the Election, INEC Manuals for Electoral Officers, and various forms such as EC8C, EC8B, and EC8E. Additionally, lists of accredited agents for SDP, ward agents, and payment receipts for forms were also presented.

Following the submission of documents, Justice Birnin-Kudu admitted them as evidence and marked them as exhibits. INEC’s lawyer, Uchenna Njoku, requested an adjournment to prepare for presenting witnesses on the next hearing date. The judge scheduled the continuation of the hearing for April 16.

Justice Birnin-Kudu noted that the SDP’s petition deadline was approaching on May 29 and reduced the time for respondents to present their cases and file final written addresses from 10 to five days. He assured that if additional time was required, the panel would accommodate the request.

Stay tuned for further updates on this ongoing legal battle as the Kogi State Governorship Petition Tribunal unfolds.