Tribunal strikes out petition against Zacharia’s election

The National and State Assembly Election Petition Tribunal in Kogi, sitting in Abuja, has upheld the election of Representative David Zacharia, representing Idah federal constituency.

The tribunal chairman, Justice A.O Chijioke, dismissed the petition filed by the petitioner, Mr Emmanuel Egwu, of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for lack of merit.

Delivering judgment, Justice Chijioke said that the petitioner failed to discharge the burden of prove placed on him.

Counsel to the petitioner, Mr Ibrahim Isiaka, had earlier told the tribunal that Zacharia lacked the necessary qualification to contest in the election.

He accused Zacharia of certificate forgery, false declaration under oath as well as alleged that the election was marred by violence, snatching of ballot boxes, multiple voting, none use of voter card readers and unlawful vote allocation.

Reacting to the judgment Isiaka said that though they are bound by the judgment, they will study it and take further legal actions.

The counsel said he would discuss with the petitioner with a view to appeal the judgment.

Also, Mr Smiala Abbas counsel to Zacharia described the ruling as victory for democracy, the people of the constituency and for Nigeria in general.

Idah federal constituency is made up of Idah, Ibaji, Ofu and Igalamela Odolu local government areas. (NAN)

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