The Nation Newspaper

Category: City Beats

  • Mushin-Idi-Araba crisis claims several lives, says foundation

    Mushin-Idi-Araba crisis claims several lives, says foundation

    The Yeti Youth Foundation has claimed that several lives have been lost to the crisis in Mushin and Idi-Araba in Lagos.

    The foundation said many residents were forced to flee their homes.

    It called on the government to urgently intervene in the ongoing conflict and insecurity plaguing the communities.

    According to community members, the violence – often fuelled by clashes between local gangs identified as “Kesari” and “Hunter” – has persisted for years, escalating particularly on Fridays near Eko Boys High School.

    Speaking to reporters, Nureni Azeez, a resident of Idi-Oro, expressed deep concern about the prolonged unrest.

    “These boys converge mostly on Fridays around Eko Boys High School. They use the opportunity to steal and disturb the peace. It’s a long-standing beef between some powerful local leaders. I saw them machete a boy and throw another from a three-storey building. The government must help us to secure this area,” he said.

    Read Also:Foundation ramps up health, education, empowerment projects

    Yahaya Mubaraq, a resident of Idi-Araba, blamed the violence on unemployment and drug abuse, particularly among youths between the ages of 15 and 20.

    “This is more than just a gang war; it’s a social crisis rooted in lack of jobs and the rise of drug use,” he said.

    A resident from Ilasa, who chose to remain anonymous, revealed that many families have vacated the area due to the unrelenting violence.

    “People are leaving in fear. We couldn’t even find a house to rent because nobody feels safe. It’s gotten to the point where you can’t sleep with both eyes closed,” she lamented.

    A resident of Moshalashi Street recounted a harrowing experience during a police raid on Sunday, saying “The police jumped our fence, broke into the house, beat me and arrested my 17-year-old son. We were not involved in anything. They detained us for four hours before my brother secured our release,” he said.

  • Police repatriate Chinese fugitive over tax fraud

    Police repatriate Chinese fugitive over tax fraud

    By Gbenga Omokhunu and Frances Eluagu, Abuja

    The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) through the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) Abuja, has apprehended and repatriated a Chinese fugitive, Mr. Chen Gaochong, to the People’s Republic of China who was involved in a tax fraud case.

    The arrest was in close collaboration with Chinese Police authorities and in accordance with international law enforcement protocols.

    Police said the operation marks a significant milestone in transnational police cooperation and the global fight against financial crime.

    A statement on Thursday by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi; “Mr. Chen Gaochong, a male national of China, was declared wanted by the Peixian Public Security Bureau of Jiangsu Province for offences involving tax fraud, specifically the unlawful issuance of special Value Added Tax (VAT) invoices totalling RMB 4,974,400.

    “The investigation, initiated by Chinese authorities on 5th March 2020, revealed that between May and August 2017, the suspect fraudulently issued 45 VAT invoices for fictitious transactions under the guise of legitimate business activities. These invoices were issued to Xuzhou Wanfeng Plastic Industry Co., Ltd., using the names of two other companies, Linhai Guangyong Plastic Products Co., Ltd. and Linhai Beilaisi Plastic Products Co., Ltd., without their consent or involvement.

    “Following the discovery of his criminal activities, Chen Gaochong fled Mainland China on 16th November 2019 through the Shenzhen Bay port to Hong Kong, and later escaped to Burkina Faso before illegally entering Nigeria in 2021. He deliberately avoided renewing his international passport in an attempt to conceal his identity and evade arrest. An arrest warrant was subsequently issued by the Peixian Public Security Bureau on 9th July 2020 for his detention on suspicion of tax-related offences.

    READ ALSO; Fed govt to conduct nationwide audit of skills centres

    “Upon receipt of a formal request for assistance from Chinese authorities, INTERPOL NCB Abuja commenced covert intelligence operations, leading to the successful tracing and arrest of the fugitive in Lagos on Tuesday, 24th June 2025. In the spirit of international law enforcement cooperation and mutual legal assistance, Mr. Chen Gaochong was repatriated and formally handed over to Chinese authorities on Thursday, 3rd July 2025.

    “The Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, reaffirms its dedication to ensuring that Nigeria does not serve as a haven for criminals fleeing justice. The Force remains committed to upholding global standards in transnational crime prevention and will continue to strengthen its collaboration with international law enforcement agencies to combat crime and criminality”.

  • Lagos unveils 20-year traffic plan as LASTMA marks 25 years

    Lagos unveils 20-year traffic plan as LASTMA marks 25 years

    • By Victoria Amadi, Udeh Onyebuchi and Christiana Ohimai

    The Lagos State Government has unveiled a 20-year traffic management blueprint as the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) celebrates its 25th anniversary.

    Speaking at a press briefing, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, described the silver jubilee as a turning point for the agency and the state’s approach to traffic control.

    “This is not just a celebration, but a moment to reaffirm our commitment to smarter, safer, and more efficient traffic management,” Giwa said.

    The long-term plan, to be officially launched on July 15 in in Eko Hotel, Themed “Enhancing Traffic Efficiency and Safety on Lagos Roads: Challenges, Opportunities and Innovations,” aims to address congestion, enhance safety, and embrace digital solutions such as real-time surveillance, Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR), and a digitized command center.

    Established in 2000 under former Governor Bola Tinubu, LASTMA now boasts over 4,000 operatives. Giwa said the agency has evolved from an intervention body into a model traffic authority, studied nationwide.

    He highlighted improvements in staff welfare, including increased insurance benefits and upgraded equipment.

     Enforcement is also being reformed, with officers now required to document infractions with timestamped photos to reduce conflicts and improve transparency.

    Read Also: No evidence found in viral allegations of officer misconduct in Surulere, says LASTMA

    In another development, the Authority through its flagship initiative, the Lagos State Traffic Safety Advocacy Programme (LASTSAP), on Thursday, held the grand finale of a statewide inter-school essay competition at the SUBEB Hall, Maryland, Lagos.

    The essay competition was designed to galvanize the critical faculties of young minds across the state. 

    Students submitted incisive essays articulating forward-thinking and sustainable strategies for enhancing traffic safety and efficiency in a complex urban ecosystem like Lagos.

    The Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, lauded the initiative for its far-reaching impact, noting that it seeks to “ignite civic consciousness and cultivate intellectual discourse among the youth on the intricacies of traffic regulation and safety.”

    Hon. Giwa further revealed that the competition culminated in a riveting final round, wherein the shortlisted finalists demonstrated exceptional analytical depth, rhetorical finesse, and creative ingenuity, reflecting a sophisticated understanding of urban mobility dynamics.

    He also announced that the climax of the event lies ahead, as three distinguished winners would be publicly honoured and conferred with awards of excellence by the Governor of Lagos State, His Excellency, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, at the 2nd Lagos Traffic Conference, slated to take place on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at the prestigious Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island”

    Also, Speaking at the event, the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, underscored the imperative of mainstreaming youth engagement in traffic policy discourse and behavioural re-orientation.

    “Today’s students represent the architects of tomorrow’s transport systems. Embedding civic responsibility and traffic consciousness in their formative years is indispensable to cultivating a future motoring environment characterized by compliance, empathy, and order,” he declared.

    The Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, Mr. Oluwa Musa, in his response to several insightful and thought-provoking debates presented by the students, urged them to remain steadfast in their academic pursuits and to conduct themselves as worthy ambassadors of both Lagos State and the nation at large.

    At the end of the event, group 5 came first, followed by group 3 as second position and group 1 as third position. Each member of the winning group received the sum of N10,000 each.

  • HEDA demands accountability from LASIEC ahead of polls

    HEDA demands accountability from LASIEC ahead of polls

    • By Udeh Onyebuchi and Fahd Bagbansoro

    The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has called on the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) to demonstrate integrity, neutrality, and professionalism in the conduct of upcoming local government elections.

    The call was made during the launch of the fifth volume of HEDA’s Leadership Approval Rating (LAR) report, titled “From Apathy to Action: A Reform Blueprint for SIECs and Community-Level Democracy,” held in Ikeja.

    HEDA’s Executive Secretary, Mr. Sulaimon Arigbabu, urged LASIEC to prove its independence and rise above political influence, stressing that it has a unique opportunity to rebuild public trust in state electoral processes.

    Read Also: LASIEC set for Saturday’s council polls, says agency chair

    “This is a golden opportunity for LASIEC to rewrite the narrative and prove that a state electoral body can operate independently and impartially,” Arigbabu stated.

    He also urged security agencies, particularly the Nigerian Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), to remain neutral and avoid any actions that could undermine the credibility of the polls.

    The newly released LAR report reveals a growing distrust in State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs), with only 45% of Nigerians believing they operate independently and just 41% trusting them to deliver free and fair elections.

    Arigbabu said these figures reflect a crisis of confidence, but noted that many citizens—especially youths—remain engaged and committed to democratic reforms. He urged civil society groups to remain vigilant and professional in monitoring the polls.

    He concluded by framing the report as a national call to action: “The people have spoken through our survey. It is now time for leadership to listen and act decisively.”

  • Alleged unlawful eviction: Court warns property developer, 2 others against evading arraignment

    Alleged unlawful eviction: Court warns property developer, 2 others against evading arraignment

     Justice Samira Bature of the FCT High Court in Maitama, has warned a property developer Cecil Osakwe and two others against evading arraignment.

    .Orakwe, Victor Giwa, and Edith Erhunmuuse were to be arraigned for alleged illegal eviction and damage to property worth N300 million.

    The case, has been adjourned five times for arraignment.

    Justice Bature gave the warning after Giwa sent a letter praying for an adjournment.

    ” This is the last time, No further excuses or applications for adjournment from the defendants would be entertained,” she said.

    Justice Bature then adjourned until Nov. 4 for arraignment.

    At the resumed sitting on Thursday ,only  Osakwe, was present in court.

    Earlier, the prosecution counsel, M.B Abubakar, decried the actions of the accused persons, describing it as “a persistent disregard for the court.”

    Abubakar told the court that the repeated absence of the accused persons was undermining the integrity of the proceedings.

    “This is the fifth adjournment. They are showing disrespect and must not be allowed to ridicule the court. We are applying for a bench warrant to compel their appearance,” he said.

    However, counsel to the second Giwa, Ogbu Aboje, opposed the application.

    He explained that his client lost two siblings recently, which necessitated his traveling, and he backed the claim with a flight ticket.

    He added further that Giwa’s lead counsel, Awa Kalu (SAN), had applied for an adjournment due to his involvement in a call-to-bar ceremony.

    Read Also: Court nullifies arbitration proceedings in Tempo Energy suit

    Osakwe in his part told the court that he has been in the court more than once.

    Abubakar disputed this claim, stating that Osakwe was not in court on the last adjourned date, March 17, “he wouldn’t have been in court and at the same time submitted a medical report.”

    Osakwe’ s lawyer , Chibunna Odiniru

    announced withdrawal of his legal representation.

    When the court demanded to hear from Osakwe, on his claim, he acknowledged facing three different charge and expressed frustration during the proceedings, prompting a caution from the judge.

    Justice Bature asked Osakwe directly whether he had secured new legal representation.

    Osakwe’s counsel Ogbu Aboje told the court that Awa Kalu SAN will represent the first and second accused.

    Noting the prolonged delays, the judge directed the court registrar to write to the Legal Aid Council to provide legal representation for the third defendant.

    The judge emphasised that no further excuses or applications for adjournment would be entertained.(NAN)

    (www.nanews.ng)

  • Civil society rallies for reparations at AU forum

    Civil society rallies for reparations at AU forum

    Calls for reparations took centre stage as civil society organisations across Africa gathered in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, to demand justice for centuries of slavery, colonisation, and resource exploitation.

    The forum, held from July 7 to 9, was part of the African Union’s Economic, Social, and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC) Citizens Forum and the 2025 Interregional Dialogue of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs).

    It took place ahead of the 47th Ordinary Session of the AU Executive Council, scheduled for July 11 to 13, under the theme: “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations.”

    The discussions, which drew over 200 participants, focused on practical frameworks to push for reparative justice and hold former colonial powers accountable.

    Various models of reparations were presented, including one based on the economic value of unpaid labour during the transatlantic slave trade.

    According to the model, if 12.5 million enslaved Africans worked for 10 years without pay, at $5 per day, reparations would exceed $2 trillion, excluding interest.

    Read Also: Forum seeks economic resilience for Nigeria at 10th anniversary

    Another model calculated Africa’s loss from colonial exploitation between 1880 and 1960, estimating the value of stolen agricultural products, minerals, and taxes at between $4 trillion and $6 trillion.

    Delegates also proposed the establishment of a Global Reparations Fund, to be financed by state contributions from former colonial powers, taxes on corporations that profited from exploitation, and climate levies on high-polluting countries.

    Speaking at the forum, Director of Pan African Television and member of the Pan-African Progressive Front, Kwesi Pratt Jr., launched his latest book, “History, Struggle, Politics, and the Case for Reparations,” published in June with a foreword by former Ghanaian President, John Dramani Mahama.

    “No amount of money can repay the millions of lives lost in the transatlantic slave trade. Reparations are about restoring our world,” Pratt said.

    The book traces the evolution of the reparations movement from the Pan-African Congresses to CARICOM’s campaigns, offering a roadmap for civil society to mobilise global support.

    Partnership Specialist at the UNDP’s African Facility for Support to Inclusive Transitions (AFSA), Dr. Catherine Brooks, said transitional periods, such as post-conflict eras or shifts from unconstitutional governments, presented opportunities to renegotiate national priorities and push for reparative justice.

    Also speaking, Ambassador Amr Aljowaily, Director of the Citizens and Diaspora Organisations Directorate (CIDO) of the AU Commission, reaffirmed the institutional support available to civil society under AU frameworks.

    “ECOSOCC and CIDO are platforms designed to enable civil society to shape the Union’s agenda. This year’s theme is not a one-off event but part of a long-term process,” he said.

    Executive Director of Reform Initiatives, Makmid Kamara, called for African education systems to shift from conventional human rights teachings to what he termed “reparative education,” which recognises Africa’s painful history and lost legacies.

    “Reparative justice is not charity, it is a right. We must revive African consciousness, reconnect with our diaspora, and restore stolen lands,” he said.

    With strong voices and renewed momentum, civil society leaders at the forum are pushing for coordinated action to ensure reparations become a central pillar in Africa’s long march toward justice and dignity.

  • NIPR, BPP collaborate to strengthen government communication

    NIPR, BPP collaborate to strengthen government communication

    In a significant step towards promoting excellence in public relations especially in government communication projects, the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), entered into a partnership with the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) towards ensuring that only certified professionals handle government Public Relations and other communication-related contracts.

    In a statement on Thursday, Professor Emmanuel Dandaura, Vice President of NIPR, said: “The activities of uncertified practitioners pose a serious threat to the integrity of government communication and the national economy.”

    Dandaura reminded the BPP that under the NIPR Act, it is a criminal offence for any individual or organisation without NIPR certification to bid for or execute public relations contracts in Nigeria and urged the Bureau to insist on certification as a mandatory requirement in all PR and communication-related procurements.

    “This partnership emphasises the importance of engaging certified practitioners who possess the necessary skills and expertise to deliver high-quality communication services.

    Read Also: NIPR, Nasarawa sign MoU to set up PR varsity

    “Organisations are encouraged to verify the credentials of PR practitioners and insist on NIPR certification as a mandatory requirement for all communication-related projects. This approach will not only enhance the quality of communication but also promote good governance and accountability,” he said.

    The BPP’s Director General, Dr. Adebowale Adedokun, reaffirmed the Bureau’s commitment to professionalism in procurement, stating that “procurement is not merely transactional; it’s a tool for good governance. And under my leadership, we are committed to professionalism and results-driven partnerships like this,” Adedokun said.

    Both institutions pledged that clear guidelines will be issued to implement this new requirement so that by engaging certified professionals, organizations can ensure that their communication strategies are effective, efficient, and aligned with best practices. 

  • One dies, others injured in renewed Ebonyi communal violence

    One dies, others injured in renewed Ebonyi communal violence

    One person has been confirmed dead and several others injured in renewed violence in Ekoli, Edda Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

    The latest incident, which occurred on Wednesday, has heightened existing tension in the community following a series of violent attacks allegedly carried out by suspected political thugs. 

    A similar attack last month claimed a life and led to the destruction of properties worth millions of naira.

    Among those previously targeted in the crisis were a former Chairman of Edda Local Government Area and former House of Assembly member, Dr. Eni Uduma Chima, and his younger brother, Chima Uduma Chima.

    The two narrowly escaped death when gunmen opened fire on their SUV, riddling it with bullets.

    In the wake of that attack, both brothers were pronounced persona non grata and allegedly banished from the community for seven years by some residents, who accused them of instigating communal unrest.

    The already tense situation escalated on Wednesday following the killing of one Udu Nnachi Uzor in Ndenworo village.

    According to his wife, Onyinye, who spoke to journalists in a telephone interview, the assailants—allegedly members of a vigilante group known as Catcham Boys—stormed their residence around noon. 

    She claimed the attackers, numbering over 20 asked for her husband before shooting him dead in their bedroom.

    “He was shot by one of the Catcham members known as Deri.His body has been deposited in the morgue,”  she alleged.

    A community leader, Etta Egor, condemned the incident and described the activities of the vigilante group as a threat to peace and security in the area.

    “We saw them moving through the villages armed with pump-action rifles, accompanied by soldiers and policemen. Not long after, we heard gunshots. When we got to Nnachi Uzor’s house, he was already dead. His wife and children were in tears,” Egor narrated.

    Read Also: Ebonyi youths drum support for Tinubu’s second term

    “We are baffled by the silence of the government while innocent youths are being targeted and killed. What crime has Ekoli committed to deserve this?”

    In a related development, a MAC truck belonging to Mr Eni Uduma Chima was reportedly hijacked during the previous attack and remains missing.

    The community has called on the Ebonyi State Government and security agencies to urgently intervene to prevent further bloodshed and restore peace to Ekoli-Edda. 

    Police spokesperson, Joshua Ukandu could not be reached for comments at the time of this report. Ends

  • Troops neutralise more terrorists, recover weapons across theatres

    Troops neutralise more terrorists, recover weapons across theatres

    The Nigerian Army has continued to consolidate its operational momentum across the country, achieving major tactical and strategic successes against the terrorists and criminal elements across the country.

    A credible source at the Army Headquarters told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the army’s sustained onslaught had led to major breakthroughs recently in the North East.

    The source said one of such is the recent uncovering of 54 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) rigged in gas cylinders and wired in series beneath the Dikwa–Marte Bridge in Borno.

    NAN recalls that troops of 24 Task Force Brigade and 50 Task Force Battalion operating under Operation Hadin Kai, had on July 4 achieved the feat in a strategic operation.

    The devices planted by ISWAP/JAS insurgents to sabotage the critical infrastructure were expertly neutralised by Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) specialists.

    IEDs attacks have been a major headache for the troops in their counterinsurgency efforts.

    The source also revealed that troops of 7 Division Garrison, in conjunction with local hunters and Hybrid Forces, successfully launched coordinated ambushes, eliminating three terrorists at Platari and Komala in Konduga Local Government Area.

    Read Also: Tinubu to troops: you have my full backing to crush terrorists, bandits

    According to the source, troops recovered motorcycles, agrochemicals and food items.

    “Concurrently, 222 Battalion troops repelled an attempted infiltration of the Mandarari IDP Camp, neutralising several insurgents in the process.

    “In another proactive engagement, the Acting Commander of Sector 2, Operation Hadin Kai, Brig.-Gen. BMG Martins, led a surgical raid on terrorist hideouts in Mandaragirau, Nguma, Kimba and Sabon Gari. This resulted in the elimination of two terrorist scouts and seizure of a cache of weapons.

    “Relatedly the sustained operation led to the surrender of 14 family members of ISWAP/JAS fighters consisting of eight women and six children. Additionally, a teenage terrorist of Buduma descent surrendered, along with a horse, to troops of 19 Brigade in Baga on 5 July” he added.

    In the North West zone, the source said the troops of 8 Division Garrison neutralised a terrorist and recovered an AK-47 rifle and a motorcycle along the Takatsaba, Sabon Birni route in Sokoto State.

    He added that troops also apprehended two suspected terrorist collaborators during a fighting patrol to Gudun village in Illela Local Government Area.

    In the North Central, the sources said the troops of 176 Guards Battalion intercepted two suspected arms couriers in possession of an AK-47 rifle along the Gwagwalada, Kuje road within the Federal Capital Territory.

    He said the troops of Operation Whirl Stroke neutralised an armed assailant and recovered a locally fabricated pistol with ammunition during a response to a civilian attack in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue.

    “Furthermore, troops’ response to the kidnap incident in Zaki-Biam led to the rescue of 11 kidnapped victims after engaging the abductors in a fierce exchange of gunfire along the Kyado-Wukari road in Ukum Local Government Area.

    “In the South-South region, troops of 6 Battalion uncovered 15 jerrycans containing approximately 450 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) in Ukanafun LGA of Akwa Ibom State. The illicit product was processed in accordance with established protocols, while the suspect fled on sighting troops.

    “Meanwhile, in the South East, troops of 302 Artillery Regiment and 14 Field Engineer Regiment arrested three suspected IPOB/ESN informants in Ihiala LGA, Anambra State. Recovered items included mobile phones, cash and a motorcycle. Additionally, troops safely detonated two IEDs found in Nkwerre and Ihiala area of Imo state.

    “These coordinated operations highlight the Nigerian Army’s sustained commitment to neutralising criminal threats and reinforcing national stability. The Nigerian army urges the public to support ongoing efforts by providing credible and timely intelligence,” he added.

  • Edo: S/Court rules today in Ighodalo’s suit against Okpebholo’s election

    Edo: S/Court rules today in Ighodalo’s suit against Okpebholo’s election

    Some supporters of the PDP and the All Progressives Congress (APC) relocated FROM Edo State to Abuja yesterday.

    Their relocation was ahead of today’s expected Supreme Court verdict on the appeal filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its governorship candidate, Asue Ighodalo (SAN), against the election of Governor Monday Okpebholo of the APC.

    Okpebholo was declared the winner of the September 21, 2024 Edo State governorship poll by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    It was learnt last night that parties had been served with notices of the court’s planned judgment

    On July 2, after taking final arguments from lawyers to parties, a five-member panel of the apex court, presided over by Justice Mohammed Garba, announced that a date for judgment would be communicated to them.

    Respondents in the appeal are INEC, Okpebholo and the APC.

    Arguing the appeal on July 2, appellants’ lawyer, Ken Mozia (SAN) prayed the court to among others, allow the appeal and set aside the May 29 judgment of the Court of Appeal, Abuja, affirming the April 2 judgment by the election tribunal, endorsing Okpebholo’s victory.

    Mozia also urged the apex court to declare Ighodalo as the winner of the election on the grounds that he scored the majority of lawful votes cast.

    Lawyers to the respondents, including Kanu Agabi (SAN) and Emmanuel Ukala (SAN) prayed the court otherwise, and sought a dismissal of the appeal.

    Read Also: Okpebholo approves N1bn for bursary payment

    The appeal is against the May 29 unanimous judgment of the Court of Appeal, Abuja, which affirmed the April 2 judgment by the election tribunal, endorsing Okpebholo’s victory.

    Justice Olabode Abimbola Adegbehingbe, who wrote and read the leado judgment of the Court of Appeal, held that the appellants failed to show that the election tribunal erred in its decision.

    Justice Adegbehingbe also held that the tribunal was right to have held that the petitioners (appellants) did not prove their allegations of non-compliance and over voting.

    The judge equally held that the evidence of 19 witnesses, called by the appellants at the tribunal, were insufficient to prove the allegations, adding that they failed to call relevant witnesses from the polling units complained about.

    “The case of the petitioners (appellants) was inadequately presented by calling only 19 witnesses, most of whom did not witness what happened at the polling units,” he said.

    Justice Adegbehingbe noted that 14 out of the 19 witnesses called by the respondents at the tribunal, gave evidence about what they did not witness, having not been present at the polling units when the election was held.

    He added that it was impossible for the appellants to prove over-voting when they failed to tender voters register.