PDP wins two NASS election petitions in Nasarawa

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Friday won two National Assembly election petitions in Nasarawa State.

The National Assembly Election Petitions Tribunal sitting in Lafia upheld the election of Sen. Philip Gyunka (PDP-Nasarawa North) and Reps David Umbugadu of Akwanga/Wamba/Nasarawa-Eggon federal constituency.

The tribunal Chairman, Justice Peter Obiora, in his judgment, dismissed both petitions for lack of merit.

Obiora upheld their elections as announced by INEC and awarded them cost of N50, 000 each.

On Umbugadu’s case, Obiora said the petitioner, Mrs Mary Enwongulu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) failed to prove allegations of over voting and non-compliance with the Electoral Act.

“The tribunal holds that the petitioner failed to establish her claims. We declare that this petition lacks merit and is hereby dismissed.

“Consequently, we reaffirm the return of Mr David Umbugadu of the PDP as the duly elected member into the Nigeria’s House of Representatives representing Akwanga/Wamba/Nasarawa federal constituency,’’ Obiora said.

Samuel Okutekpa (SAN), Counsel to the respondent, hailed the judgment, saying it was a true reflection of the wishes of the electorate.

However, Counsel to the petitioner, Dr Mubarak Adekilekun, said he would consult with his client on whether or not to appeal against the judgment.

Similarly, Obiora dismissed the consolidated petition brought against Gyunka by Mr Sam Allu of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and Idris Yahuza of the APC.

Obiora said Allu failed to prove that election was not conducted at Lambuga and Arikya polling units in Nasarawa-Eggon as claimed.

He, therefore, corroborated the position of INEC that election for the contentious polling unit was nullified for over voting.

He said Yahuza of the APC could not prove allegation of malpractice during the election and therefore, dismissed all the petitions for lack of merit.

Gyunka told newsmen after the judgment that he was grateful to God and promised not to relent in fighting for the good of the people.