Absence of witnesses stall Gov Abba Yusuf’s opening defence

The absence of three witnesses on Friday prevented Abba Yusuf of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) from opening his defence at the Kano State Election Petition Tribunal.

The APC is challenging INEC for declaring the NNPP candidate winner of the election that was conducted on March 18.

Respondents in the matter before the tribunal include INEC, Yusuf and the NNPP.

When the petition was called, Counsel to Yusuf, Mr Eyitayo Fatigun SAN, told the court that the three witnesses they had invited were absent.

“We apologise because the three witnesses had flight issues getting to Kano from Abuja. My Lord, we seek an adjournment,” Fatigun said

Counsel to INEC, Emmanuel Osayomi and Counsel to NNPP, John Olusola SAN, did not oppose the prayer.

Counsel to the petitioner, Offiong Offiong SAN, also did not oppose the request for an adjournment by the second respondent.

NAN reports the APC on July 15, closed its case after calling 32 witnesses, while INEC closed its case on July 21.

Justice Oluyemi Akintan-Osadebay adjourned the matter until Saturday for the NNPP to open its case.