There was heavy security presence at the magistrate court, Isabo in Abeokuta on Saturday as the Ogun State Election Petition Tribunal is expected to deliver its judgement in the case between Ladi Adebutu, the governorship candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), challenging the victory of Dapo Abiodun of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Adebutu and the PDP had approached the tribunal to challenge the declaration of Abiodun as the winner of the governorship election conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), alleging that the election was marred with corrupt practices and non-compliance with the Electoral Act.
In the same vein, Governor Abiodun and the APC, had urged the State Election Petition Tribunal to dismiss the petition filed by Adebutu and his party against the election held on March 18, 2023 in the state.
Journalists who wished to cover proceedings were also fenced out despite showing their Identity cards as the tribunal secretary said only 10 newsmen would be accredited for ‘security reasons’.
Blueprint correspondent reports that the Isabo axis of the court has been taken over by security agents as early as 6am, just as men of the Department of State Security (DSS) were also deplored to prevent breakdown of law and order.
All roads leading to the Isabo court have been barricaded to prevent both human and vehicular movement, as two armoured personnel carriers were mounted in front of the court.
The court is expected to resume sitting at 9am.
