By Ebuka Obidinma
The Benue State Local Government Elections Petition Tribunal sitting in Abuja has upheld the victories of the incumbent chairmen of Katsina-Ala, Ukum, and Logo Local Government Areas.
Delivering a unanimous ruling, the tribunal led by Justice Ityonyiman dismissed the petitions challenging the elections, which were primarily instituted by the Agada-led faction of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The panel upheld preliminary objections raised by Mr. Mohammed Ndarani, SAN, lead counsel for the Benue State Independent Electoral Commission (BSIEC), the 1st respondent in the case.
The tribunal held that the petitioners lacked the locus standi (legal standing) to institute the suits. It further ruled that the issues raised were largely pre-election matters, which fall outside the jurisdiction of the tribunal. Additionally, the panel found that the petitioners failed to comply with statutory requirements, including the mandatory payment of security for cost.
Another major flaw identified by the tribunal was the failure of the petitioners to join the APC, which it described as a necessary party to the proceedings.
In view of these shortcomings, the tribunal ruled in favor of the respondents and dismissed the petitions for lack of merit.
Reacting to the decision, Mr. Ndarani described the judgment as “faultless,” noting that it accurately reflected the correct position of the law. He praised the tribunal for its clarity and depth in resolving the legal issues presented.
According to Ndarani, the judgment has further strengthened public confidence in the integrity and competence of the tribunal.
Meanwhile, other tribunal judgments concerning the Zone A axis of the state are scheduled for April 14 and 15.
