Supreme Court Strikes Out Hope Democratic Party’s Presidential Candidate’s Appeal Against Buhari and Tinubu Administrations

Background of the Appeal:

The appeal, which included the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Attorney General of the Federation as respondents, was originally rejected by the lower court.

Owuru sought redress at the Supreme Court following this dismissal.

Dismissal Reasoning by the Appellate Court:

The appellate court, in rejecting Owuru’s appeal, highlighted that he engaged in egregious procedural abuse, filing a lawsuit deemed pointless, vexatious, and vexing against the respondents.

The court contended that attempting to revive a Supreme Court matter from 2019 aimed to challenge the authority of the supreme court itself.

Penalty Imposed by the Appellate Court:

As a consequence of the dismissal, the court ordered Owuru to pay N10 million to President Buhari, President Tinubu, the Attorney General of the Federation, and INEC.

Owuru’s Argument and Subsequent Supreme Court Appearance:

Owuru argued that President Buhari had infringed upon his tenure in 2019 when the Supreme Court declined to hear his appeal challenging Buhari’s election victory.

He additionally sought an order preventing any handover inauguration by Buhari until his appeal was decided.

Court Proceedings and Advice to Owuru’s Lawyer:

During the Supreme Court session, Owuru’s attorney, Olawuyi Olaoluwa, requested an adjournment, citing recent involvement in the case.

However, Justice Okoro questioned Olaoluwa’s familiarity with the case’s facts, emphasizing the lack of substance.

AGF’s Call for Dismissal and Court’s Caution:

The Attorney General of the Federation’s representative urged the court to dismiss the appeal, asserting its misuse of the legal system.

Justice Okoro cautioned the attorney against pursuing similar cases in the future, advising against taking such cases for the sake of a legal career.

Conclusion and Dismissal by the Supreme Court:

Following the proceedings, the five-member panel led by Justice John Okoro dismissed Owuru’s appeal, marking a significant legal setback for the Hope Democratic Party’s presidential candidate.

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