Nigeria's presidential election tribunal delivers judgement

In a crucial turn of events in Nigeria, the country's presidential election petition court is currently delivering judgment on three petitions seeking the removal of President Bola Tinubu from office. One of the petitions, filed by the Allied Peoples Movement challenging the eligibility of Vice President Kashim Shettima as a running mate to President Tinubu, was recently struck out by Justice Haruna Tsammani. To delve deeper into the legal intricacies surrounding this landmark case, Evans Ufeli, a distinguished Constitutional Lawyer and Rights Advocate, joined CNBC Africa to discuss the implications of the ongoing proceedings. The deliberations have been intense, with a focus on facts, evidence, and the strength of the cases put forth by the petitioners. The recent ruling on the APM petition set the tone for the remaining two petitions to be adjudicated upon. Ufeli emphasized the critical aspect of the cases being based on evidence presented in court, rather than public sentiment or media speculation. The judicial process is grounded in the rule of law, ensuring that justice is served based on tangible proof and legal principles. Moving forward, the outcomes of these petitions are anticipated to establish precedents for future elections in Nigeria, shaping the conduct of electoral processes and reinforcing the role of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as a neutral arbiter. Ufeli highlighted the necessity for INEC to enhance its operational capabilities, maintain integrity, and resist political influence to guarantee free, fair, and credible elections. The public's role in upholding the sanctity of the electoral system was underscored, emphasizing the importance of transparent and accountable governance. Additionally, the government's commitment to upholding the rule of law and implementing stringent penalties for electoral malpractices was emphasized to deter misconduct and ensure accountability in the electoral process. As the judgment unfolds and the legal landscape evolves, Nigeria stands at a significant crossroads in its democratic journey, with the implications of these rulings resonating far beyond the current proceedings. The outcomes of these petitions are poised to shape the future trajectory of Nigeria's electoral framework, underscoring the imperative of upholding the rule of law, transparency, and integrity in the country's democratic processes.