Toba Owojaiye Reporting
PAN Niger Delta Elders Forum (PANDEF) has expressed its dissatisfaction with the legal representatives of the Labour Party’s candidate, Peter Obi, and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in their handling of the presidential election case. According to PANDEF’s National Publicity Secretary, Ken Robinson, the lawyers’ performance in the matter was subpar, citing regrettable lapses and insufficient due diligence.
Robinson emphasized that PANDEF closely monitored the exhaustive 11-hour judgment, where the Court of Appeal justices provided comprehensive explanations and rulings. To the ordinary person, it appeared that the petitioners (LP and PDP) fell short in presenting a compelling case, based on the explicit statements made by the judges during the proceedings.
He acknowledged the possibility of appeals for those dissatisfied with the tribunal’s verdict but commended the judges for their exclusive and clear judgment. Robinson, however, suggested that the lawyers who represented the petitioners might need to apologize to their clients for their perceived shortcomings in handling the case.
Robinson emphasized the importance of respecting the judicial process and avoiding any form of lawlessness or criticism against the judiciary. He urged dissatisfied parties to utilize the legal avenue of appeal, emphasizing the significance of national unity, peace, and the development of Nigeria’s democracy.
PANDEF, who reaffirmed their consensus endorsement for Peter Obi before the election are impressed with his performance at the polls but acknowledge that the legal teams were not at their best in this PEPT and has exonerated the judiciary.
In summary, PANDEF criticized the legal representatives of LP and PDP for their performance in the presidential election case, while encouraging those dissatisfied with the verdict to pursue the appeals process and maintain the rule of law.