Tribunal upholds Sen. Bassey’s victory in A’Ibom

Akpan Umoh, Uyo

The National Assembly Election Tribunal sitting in Uyo has upheld the victory of Sen. Aniekan Bassey of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) representing Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District in the National Assembly.

This is the judgement of Justice B.A. Taiwo-led tribunal affirmed Bassey as the lawful winner of the Feb. 25, 2023, senatorial election held across the Akwa Ibom North-East senatorial district.

The tribunal held that the petitioner, Mr Emaeyak Ukpong of the All Progressives Congress (APC) failed to substantiate any of the issues brought before the tribunal nor was able to prove any of his allegations bordering on overvoting, widespread irregularities and noncompliance with provisions of the Electoral Act.

Ukpong, through his Counsel, Barr. Jumbo Udom, had asked the tribunal to declare null and void the victory of Sen. Bassey for alleged non-compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022 and declare him winner of the February 25, 2023 election.

Counsels to Bassey, led by Barr. Sam Ikpo, that of the PDP, led by Barr. Emmanuel Enoidem, and the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC), had urged the tribunal to dismiss the petitioner’s case for lack of merit.

The tribunal accordingly dismissed the petition on lack of merit and substance and declared Bassey as a validly elected senator for Akwa Ibom North-East.

In his reaction to the judgment, Sen. Bassey hailed the tribunal and described the judgment as upholding the rule of law against emotions, sentiment and victory for democracy.

Bassey said that the tribunal has reaffirmed the mandate given to him by the people and called on his opponent to join hands with him in building and developing Akwa Ibom North East senatorial district and the entire Akwa Ibom State.