APC Thugs Invade Tribunal, Attacks Segun Sowunmi and Others

A group of suspected All Progressive Congress APC thugs disrupted the governorship election petitions tribunal in Ogun.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused them of assaulting Segun Sowunmi, a prominent PDP member, at a hearing on the disputed March 18 election results.

iexclusivenews reports that the motive behind the attack seems to be an attempt to obstruct the tribunal from considering crucial evidence.

That could potentially invalidate Governor Dapo Abiodun’s second term victory. As declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Attack on Segun Sowunmi and Supporters:

Segun Sowunmi, a respected figure within the PDP, has claimed that he and several of his supporters were subjected to an assault. Resulting in injuries that required medical attention at various hospitals.

Expressing concern over the escalating violence, Mr. Sowunmi held Governor Abiodun responsible for the deteriorating situation.

He further advocated for relocating the petition tribunal to a safer location, away from the influence of the governor.

In his words, “Dapo Abiodun has transformed Ogun state into a state of chaos. He cannot manipulate this election and expect to suppress the presentation of evidence regarding his alleged misconduct.”

Accusations against Governor Dapo Abiodun:

Seeking a resolution, Mr. Sowunmi appealed to President Tinubu to intervene and ensure the tribunal’s relocation to a neutral venue where all parties involved can feel secure and free from intimidation.

However, iexclusivenews reports that the Gazette’s attempts to obtain comments from the Ogun State Police Command regarding the incident were unsuccessful.

Additionally, Kunle Somorin, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Abiodun during his first term, declined to provide a statement.

The APC spokesman in Ogun, Tunde Oladunjoye, also did not respond to The Gazette’s request for a comment.

 

Controversial Election Results:

The controversy surrounding Governor Abiodun’s election victory arises from the fact that INEC declared him the winner after receiving 276,298 votes. Narrowly surpassing his main opponent Ladi Adebutu’s 262,383 votes.

This outcome was questionable, as the margin of victory was smaller than the number of voters who were unable to cast their votes due to acts of violence and other extenuating circumstances.

It is worth noting that a similar inconclusive case in Adamawa prompted INEC to conduct a rerun election.

The disruption caused by alleged APC thugs at the governorship election petitions tribunal in Ogun. Resulting in an attack on Segun Sowunmi and his supporters, has led to the adjournment of court proceedings.

The PDP member accused Governor Dapo Abiodun of promoting violence and called for the tribunal to be relocated to ensure a fair and impartial hearing.

The need to address these concerns and maintain the integrity of the electoral process is vital for upholding democratic values and fostering a safe environment for all parties involved.