Supreme Court Rejects APC’s Appeal, Affirms Fubara’s Governorship
The Supreme Court has delivered a decisive blow to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its candidate, Tonye Cole, dismissing their appeal against the election of Siminalayi Fubara as the Rivers State governor.
The apex court, led by Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, found the appeal lacking in merit.
Background: Reserved Judgment and Allegations
In the preceding week, a five-member panel, headed by Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, had reserved judgment on the appeal.
The appeal was centered on Tonye-Cole and APC’s contention that Governor Fubara failed to resign as the Accountant General of the state within the constitutionally stipulated deadline before contesting the 2023 elections.
Claim: Fubara’s Alleged Ineligibility
Tonye-Cole and the APC asserted that Fubara was not qualified to contest the election, emphasizing that he did not comply with the resignation requirements before participating in the electoral process.
The appeal sought to set aside the Court of Appeal’s November 28, 2023 judgment, which had upheld Fubara’s election.
Supreme Court Ruling: Allegations Not Substantiated
On Thursday, January 25, the Supreme Court delivered its verdict, stating that the appellant, APC, failed to substantiate the allegations of noncompliance with the Electoral Act, among other claims.
The court deemed the appeal incompetent and subsequently dismissed it.
Implications of the Ruling
With the dismissal of the appeal, Siminalayi Fubara’s election as the Rivers State governor stands validated.
The Supreme Court’s ruling affirms the decision of the Court of Appeal and solidifies Fubara’s position as the duly elected governor.
The judgment marks a significant development in the legal battles surrounding the 2023 elections in Rivers State.