The Labour Party’s case, represented by Comrade Ladi Iliya, Deputy National Chairman of the Labour Party, has been making headlines as it challenges the outcome of the recent elections. In this CURRENT REPORT BLOG post, we will provide a summary of the live court proceedings, highlighting key moments and exchanges between the parties involved.
Witness Examination
The session began with SAN Livy, the legal representative for the Labour Party, informing the court that the witness from the previous day was present and ready for cross-examination. The witness, Yunusa Tanko, took the stand and confirmed his oath.
Cross-Examination by INEC
The representative from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) started their cross-examination by asking about Tanko’s whereabouts on the voting day. Tanko confirmed that he voted at PU 4, Gawaki Abuja, and then proceeded to the Labour Party Asokoro situation room and the voting point to monitor the votes.
Party Roles
INEC sought clarification on Tanko’s role within the Labour Party. He revealed that he served as the chief spokesman of the Presidential Campaign Council and the National Director of Media for the party. INEC further questioned if Tanko was a polling unit (PU) agent or collation agent for the party at any INEC centers, to which he clarified that he acted as the agent at his own polling unit.
Case Against INEC
INEC presented a document related to a previous case between INEC and the Labour Party (AbjCS/1424/2022). While SAN Livy objected to its tendering, the judges admitted it as evidence. The document highlighted the use of electoral collation and other means by INEC.
Examination of Election Results
INEC asked Tanko to review electoral forms from specific polling units (PU048 of Ward 7 and PU070 of Ward 07 in LGA 02, FCT) and identify the scores of the Labour Party and other respondents. Tanko stated that the forms were mutilated and unreadable, making it impossible to identify the scores accurately.
Courtroom Interactions
During the cross-examination, there were occasional interruptions and exchanges between the lawyers and the witness. At times, the judges intervened to maintain order and remind everyone of proper courtroom conduct.
Cross-Examination by APC
The legal representative for the All Progressives Congress (APC) questioned Tanko’s familiarity with expert reports and evidence, emphasizing the timing of his witness deposition compared to the release of expert reports.
Documentation Issues
APC drew attention to discrepancies between the dates mentioned in Tanko’s statement and the evidence provided, pointing out that some documents mentioned were not tendered. SAN Livy objected to the admissibility of certain documents, leading to discussions about their relevance.
Conclusion of the Session
With time running out, the court discussed whether to continue with additional witnesses or adjourn for the day. APC argued that the time allotted for the Labour Party’s case had already expired, while SAN Livy expressed readiness to proceed. The court decided to recess briefly and reconvene to hear the remaining witnesses.
The Labour Party’s case against the election outcome has seen several notable moments during the live court proceedings. Cross-examinations, objections, and discussions about evidence and timelines have shaped the narrative of the case. The case shifted proceeding till Monday 26th, 2023.
