By Milcah Tanimu

The Presidential Election Petition Court (PEPC) in Abuja is currently delivering its judgment on three petitions that seek to challenge the validity of President Bola Tinubu’s election. The court is heavily secured, with a strong presence of armed security personnel from the Army, Police, and Civil Defence, along with Department of State Services (DSS) agents verifying attendees’ identities. The Justice Haruna Tsammani-led panel had previously approved the cases for judgment, which were filed by the Labour Party (LP) and its candidate, Peter Obi, as well as former Vice President and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Atiku Abubakar, and the Allied Peoples Movement (APM). The petitioners have contested the election outcome, challenging Tinubu’s eligibility and seeking a fresh presidential election.

Prominent figures, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, Governors Abdullahi Sule and Bala Mohammed, APC Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, have gathered at the PEPC in Abuja to witness the judgment delivery on the petitions against President Tinubu. The court has maintained strict security measures, only permitting accredited individuals entry, while directing its staff to stay home. However, the judgment proceedings are available for live broadcast. The three petitions contesting the presidential election results argue that President Tinubu did not secure the majority of lawful votes, challenging his eligibility, and calling for the withdrawal of his Certificate of Return. The verdict is highly anticipated, as it holds significant implications for the Nigerian political landscape.