Abia State election petition tribunal sitting in Umuahia on Friday granted a request by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to change its counsel in the suit filed by former House of Representatives member, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha of the APC challenging the victory of Labour Party’s Amobi Ogah in the February election for Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency of Abia State.
Drama ensued in the courtroom when two lawyers claimed to be representing INEC in the suit.
In the ensuing argument on who the authentic counsel to INEC is, the court wondered who due process was not followed in applying for a change of counsel.
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However, upon presentation of relevant documents, the tribunal in its wisdom however granted the application by the INEC, requesting for a change of counsel.
Labour Party had accused the former counsel to INEC of bias, alleging that he had been compromised by the petitioner, Hon. Onyejeocha to present a fake iRev result before the tribunal.
Reacting to the development, counsel to Labour Party, Valentine Offiom applauded the tribunal for granting an application seeking a change of counsel by INEC, saying justice should not be procured.
The tribunal adjourned till June 19 when the new counsel to INEC is expected to appear in court for continuation of hearing.
Amobi Ogah was officially declared winner of the Feb. 25 National Assembly poll by the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) after he got 11, 822 votes to defeat Onyejeocha who garnered 8752 from the total votes cast.
Onyejeocha is challenging Ogah’s election, alleging irregularities.
