The Abia State governorship election held on March 18, 2023, has been marred by controversy as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) challenges the declaration of Mr. Alex Otti as the winner. In a recent development, the PDP has presented its final witness in court, Mr. Samuel Oduntan, a statistician and digital examiner.
Appearing as a subpoenaed witness, Oduntan submitted his written analysis to the court. However, he stated that despite his request, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) denied him access to the relevant BVAS data used during the election. Undeterred, Oduntan relied on forms EC8E and EC8A to analyze the votes in question.
During cross-examination, Oduntan revealed that Abia State is comprised of 4,062 polling units and 184 Registration Areas (Wards) across its 17 Local Government Areas (LGAs). His analysis pointed to discrepancies in the votes cast in Obingwa LGA. Oduntan alleged that the PDP garnered 169,707 votes, while the Labour Party received 169,519 votes.
These figures directly contradict the results initially announced by INEC, which stated that the PDP scored 88,529 votes, while the Labour Party secured 175,467 votes.
Responding to the testimony, A.J. Owonikoko, the Lead Counsel for Governor Alex Otti, questioned Oduntan’s credibility, referring to him as a stranger brought in by the PDP. Similarly, Umeh Kalu, SAN, the Lead Counsel for the Labour Party, further cross-examined Oduntan.
During the cross-examination, Oduntan informed the tribunal that he had been granted an order to inspect the BVAS machines and Voter’s Cards used in the election. However, he claimed that he was denied access to them.
The proceedings were adjourned to August 23, 24, and 25 to allow the respondents to present their defense.
