Sanwo-Olu, Hamzat Conclude Defense In Election Petition Filed By Rhodes-Vivour

The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his Deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, on Monday, began and ended their defence in the election petition lodged against them by the Labour Party (LP) and its gubernatorial candidate, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour.

The LP and Rhodes-Vivour are contesting the victory of Sanwo-Olu and Hamzat in the March 18 governorship election.

They are also disputing Hamzat’s eligibility to run, alleging he renounced his Nigerian citizenship and pledged allegiance to the U.S.

The APC Chairman for Lagos State and a defence witness, Fuad Ade-Oki presented documents to the tribunal, including INEC Form EC9 containing Hamzat’s personal details and the oath he signed on his nomination form.

Led by APC’s lead counsel, Mr Abiodun Owonikoko (SAN), Ade-Oki explained to the tribunal his involvement when Sanwo-Olu and Hamzat filled out the INEC Form EC9 and the oaths on their nomination forms, all taking place at the Ikeja High Court Registry.

Despite LP counsel, Mr Idowu Benson, contesting the admissibility of the evidence, the tribunal, led by Justice Arum Ashom, admitted the documents provisionally, with objections to be heard later.

Following Ade-Oki’s testimony, the tribunal discharged him. Subsequently, Muiz Banire announced that Sanwo-Olu and Hamzat would be closing their case.