ABUJA, Nigeria — In a highly anticipated decision that could shape the political landscape of Nigeria, the Supreme Court has scheduled a verdict on May 26 on a case brought by the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) challenging the qualifications of President-elect Bola Tinubu and Vice-President-elect Kassim Shettima.
The PDP seeks to overturn the judgment of the Court of Appeal, presided over by Justice James Abundaga, which determined that the party lacked the standing to bring the suit.
The appeal seeks to disqualify Tinubu based on a purported double nomination of his deputy, Shettima, who, according to PDP, simultaneously held positions as both a Senatorial and Vice Presidential candidate.
The outcome of this case could have seismic implications. If upheld, Shettima’s disqualification would jeopardize the swearing-in of Tinubu as president since they were elected on a joint ticket.
Senior lawyer e Agim, representing the PDP, argued before the Supreme Court that the All Progressives Congress (APC) had previously conceded to Shettima’s double nomination during the appellate court proceedings, a claim vehemently denied by the APC.
Drawing upon a precedent set in the case of Uche Nwosu against the Action Democratic Party (ADP), Agim contended that the defendants should not have the right to present an argument given the alleged double nomination.U
“There’s a punishment fr double nomination. They ought not to be heard,” Mr Agim forcefully told the court on Monday. “It should never happen in this country.”
As the nation watches, the verdict on Friday will not only determine the fate of the incoming leadership but could also set a crucial precedent for the democratic processes in Nigeria, reinforcing the sanctity of its electoral laws.
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