Supreme Court Set to Render Verdicts on Six Governorship Appeals Today

Anticipation looms as the Supreme Court prepares to deliver judgments today on gubernatorial appeals challenging election outcomes in Gombe, Kebbi, Ogun, Kaduna, Nasarawa, and Delta states. This follows the recent decisions by the apex court that determined the fate of 10 state governors, including notable figures such as Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos and Bala Mohammed of Bauchi.

Notably, no governor has been removed from office in the cases decided thus far. However, today’s judgments hold particular significance, with Nasarawa State at the forefront of attention. Fearing potential unrest post-judgment, both the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have entered into a peace agreement.

The Nasarawa State case involves the reinstatement of Governor Abdullahi Sule, who was initially ousted by the tribunal in favor of David Ombugadu, the PDP candidate. The appeal court, in its ruling, pointed out that the tribunal had erred in relying on evidence from eight PDP witnesses, whose statements were not submitted alongside the petition.

Another intriguing case awaiting judgment is the Delta State governorship appeal, where Ken Pella of the Labour Party and Ovie Omo-Agege of the APC challenge Sheriff Oborevwori’s victory.

In Ogun, Ladi Adebutu of the PDP is contesting the victory of Governor Dapo Abiodun.

Security measures have been heightened around the Supreme Court premises, with roads cordoned off and thorough checks conducted on accredited litigants, journalists, and party supporters. The crowd gathered to observe proceedings, presenting a challenge for security operatives as the judgments unfold.