Uduaghan's Tenure Elongation Bid: Power Outage Hinders Ruling

Lack of electricity supply at the Federal High Court in Asaba, Delta state has impeded judiciary proceedings and eventual delivery of judgment in a suit filed by Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, through the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Victor  Otemiewo, asking the Court to stop INEC from conducting the forthcoming April governorship election in the state.  

  Justice Ibrahim Buba of Federal High Court, Asaba, who had on Monday, 7th March, 20011 adjourned ruling on the matter till Monday, 14th March, 2011 could not give his already prepared ruling due to power failure which made the small crammed court room unbearable for normal court proceedings.  

  The premises of the Federal High Court which was filled beyond capacity by lawyers, Uduaghan's supporters (Commissioners and Special Aides), journalists and security agents as early as 08:00 am ahead of the ruling later became scanty as it became clear that the sitting may be deferred considering the absence of electricity as the lights and fans could not function.    

  Justice Buba, while addressing the Court after counsels to parties (Applicants and Defendants) in the suit introduced themselves said, 'It is impossible to go ahead under this condition'.  

  Earlier, Barr. Belo Aideloje, Counsel to Prince Collins Eselemo, governorship candidate of National Conscience Party (NCP) whose application was struck out by Justice Buba for lack of competence announced that he is seeking to be in the matter.  

  He said, 'I am seeking to be joined in this matter. I am appearing for Collins Eselemo. Pursuant to the order of this court, we have since filed an appeal and a motion of stay for suspension of proceedings at the Court of Appeal on 8th day of March, 2011'.  

  The presiding judge, Justice Buba however disallowed further arguments due to situation on ground and therefore further adjourned ruling on the matter to Tuesday, March 15, 20011.