The opening defence of Governor Abba Yusuf, candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), at the State Election Petition Tribunal has hit a snag due to the absence of three crucial witnesses, Vanguard has reported.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) is contesting the victory of the NNPP candidate following the declaration by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) that he emerged as the winner in the March 18 election.
The respondents in the matter include the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Governor Abba Yusuf himself, and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).
When the petition was called, Counsel to Yusuf, Mr Eyitayo Fatigun SAN, told the court that the three witnesses they had invited were absent.
Fatigue said, “We apologise because the three witnesses had flight issues getting to Kano from Abuja. My Lord, we seek an adjournment.”
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Counsel to INEC, Emmanuel Osayomi and Counsel to NNPP, John Olusola SAN, did not oppose the prayer.
Counsel to the petitioner, Offiong Offiong SAN, also did not oppose the request for an adjournment by the second respondent.
Recall that the APC on July 15, closed its case after calling 32 witnesses, while INEC closed its case on July 21.
Justice Oluyemi Akintan-Osadebay adjourned the matter until Saturday for the NNPP to open its case.