Atiku Files Fresh Evidence: In a surprising turn of events, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has taken a bold step in his quest to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s election victory. Atiku has filed what he describes as fresh evidence against Tinubu at the Supreme Court, seeking to disqualify him from holding office. This move has injected new life into an already contentious legal battle and could have far-reaching implications for Nigerian politics.
New Evidence Emerges
Atiku’s legal team, led by Chief Chris Uche (SAN), submitted a motion to the Supreme Court, requesting permission to present Tinubu’s academic records as evidence. According to Atiku, these records were provided by Chicago State University (CSU) on October 2, 2023. The former vice president contends that this evidence will prove his allegations that Tinubu submitted forged documents to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to qualify for the presidential election.
Forgery and Perjury Allegations
Atiku asserts that Tinubu’s actions amount to forgery and perjury, justifying his disqualification from holding office. He argues that the 32-page document from CSU, released on the orders of Judge Nancy Maldonado of the District Court of Illinois, reveals that Tinubu’s certificate presented to INEC was not genuine and lacked the authority of Chicago State University. Atiku cites legal provisions and constitutional principles to support his case.
Legal Grounds for Atiku’s Motion
Atiku’s motion is grounded in Order 2, Rule 12(1) of the Supreme Court Rules 1985, Section 137(1) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, and the inherent jurisdiction of the apex court as encapsulated in Section 6(6)(a) of the 1999 Constitution. He urges the court to grant him permission “to produce and for the court to receive fresh and additional evidence by way of deposition on oath from the Chicago State University.” Atiku contends that this evidence is crucial to the resolution of the appeal.
The Significance of the Evidence
Atiku’s legal team argues that the deposition and accompanying documents are credible, relevant, and unambiguous. They assert that these materials could not have been obtained with reasonable diligence for use during the trial, as they were only available after the conclusion of the lower court’s proceedings. Atiku believes that this evidence will expose the alleged forgery and impact the case’s outcome.
A Renewed Legal Battle
This development has reignited the legal battle between Atiku and Tinubu. Atiku had previously raised allegations of irregularities, non-compliance with electoral laws, and corrupt practices. He also questioned Tinubu’s qualification to contest the election based on the alleged presentation of a forged certificate. Although these claims were dismissed earlier, the fresh evidence could reshape the entire legal landscape.
The Road Ahead
As this legal drama unfolds, Nigeria finds itself on the brink of another political storm. The Supreme Court’s decision on whether to admit Atiku’s new evidence will have significant implications for the country’s political future. The outcome of this case could reshape the political landscape and set important precedents for future elections.
Awaiting the Supreme Court’s Decision
Atiku Files Fresh Evidence: The Supreme Court has yet to schedule a date for hearing Atiku’s motion to file Atiku Fresh Evidence. Until then, the nation remains in suspense, waiting to see how this legal battle will ultimately impact the political fortunes of Atiku Abubakar and President Bola Tinubu. Source and visit thedailycourierng for more news