Anambra Guber Polls: Obiano Expresses Confidence In Tribunal

The Governor-elect of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano has expressed confidence in the ability of the Elections Petitions Tribunal handling complaints arising from the 16th and 30th November 2013 gubernatorial polls in Anambra state from which he was overwhelmingly elected the next governor of Anambra State.

Fielding questions from journalists after the sitting of the Tribunal in Awka on Tuesday, Chief Obiano stated: “I have confidence in this tribunal and the Nigerian justice system to preserve our democracy. I am impressed with the composition of this Tribunal and I have no doubt that the collective will of Ndi Anambra as expressed in the mandate they gave to me on November 16th and 30th, 2013 will be preserved.”

Speaking further, the Governor-elect said: “Just yesterday, we won a major victory at the Abuja High Court where my opponent's application for an order of mandamus to compel the Inspector General of Police to prosecute me over a false allegation was struck out. I am confident that justice will also be done on the case before this Tribunal.”

Chief Obiano who was the only party to the electoral dispute in attendance at the Tribunal had arrived the venue quite early and carried himself respectfully, acknowledging cheers from many Anambrarians who turned up at the court premises to witness the proceedings of the tribunal.

The tribunal chaired by Justice Ishaq Usman Bello had begun sitting at 9.AM with various parties to the dispute exchanging documents and petitions in readiness for a proper hearing and eventual legal fireworks.

The Tribunal subsequently adjourned to Tuesday, February 11, 2014 for the next hearing.