Witnesses at Kogi Tribunal Contradict Themselves, Adding to Electoral Drama

The Kogi State Election Petition Tribunal witnessed continued drama over the hearing of the Social Democratic Party (SDP)’s petition, as four witnesses called by the party gave conflicting testimonies. This trend has persisted, with witnesses in past sittings also retracting their statements.

The SDP and its governorship candidate, Murtala Ajaka, are contesting the victory of Gov. Usman Ododo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Nov. 11, 2023 election.

During Wednesday’s sitting, the four witnesses called by SDP appeared before the panel led by Justice Ado Birnin-Kudu. Their testimonies, especially during cross-examination, raised questions as they contradicted themselves and struggled to explain their statements.

One witness, Danlamin Yakubu, claimed to be an SDP agent during the election but could not provide evidence to support his claim. He admitted to forgetting to mention his role as an agent in his deposition, alleging that his lawyer had written it for him. When asked about specific details in his deposition, he gave conflicting responses and claimed ignorance.

Another witness, Abdulkareem Ogeja, also from Ajaokuta LGA, admitted to being an SDP member but did not state his party membership in his deposition. He claimed not to be the party’s agent during the election, despite the SDP having an agent at his polling unit. Ogeja’s testimony was marred by contradictions, including his inability to recall details about the number of registered voters in his polling unit.

Emmanuel Ohiare from Okehi LGA and Abdullahi Musa from Ajaokuta LGA also testified, but their testimonies did little to clarify the situation.

The tribunal adjourned the sitting until April 4 for further hearing.

PM News