- Gubernatorial candidate Nentawe Yilwatda appeals against the dismissal of his election petition, contesting the declaration of Governor Caleb Mutfwang
- Yilwatda argues that the tribunal’s decision violated his right to a fair hearing, and his appeal seeks a just resolution
In the wake of the recent ruling by the election petition tribunal in Plateau State, Nentawe Yilwatda, the gubernatorial candidate representing the All Progressives Congress (APC), has taken a decisive step by filing an appeal challenging the tribunal’s judgement, which dismissed his petition on the grounds of lacking merit.
The crux of the matter revolves around Yilwatda’s objection to the declaration of Governor Caleb Mutfwang, who ran under the banner of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), as the victor of the March 18th election. Yilwatda’s contention is that the PDP lacked a proper organizational structure, rendering it unqualified to field a candidate in the election.
Furthermore, Yilwatda argued that there was a considerable case of over-voting during the election, and he urged the tribunal to overturn the results in his favour. Unfortunately, the tribunal found his arguments unconvincing and dismissed his petition for its perceived lack of merit.
In response, Nentawe Yilwatda, through his legal representative, Professor Kayode Olatoke (SAN), has formally lodged an appeal. In this appeal, the APC candidate asserts that the tribunal’s decision to strike out statements made under oath by his witnesses and dismiss the presented documents violated his fundamental right to a fair hearing and trial.
Yilwatda firmly maintains that there was a miscarriage of justice during the governorship election tribunal’s proceedings. The appeal aims to revisit the matter, seeking a just and equitable resolution that aligns with the principles of democracy and electoral justice.
As this case moves forward, it remains a focal point of interest in Plateau State politics, with the outcome holding significance not only for the individuals involved but also for the broader political landscape of the state.