Livy Uzoukwu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and the lead
counsel for the Labour Party (LP)
presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has made a
bold declaration to expose the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)
for allegedly withholding crucial documents. Uzoukwu believes that the
electoral umpire may be attempting to manipulate these documents before
releasing them.
During an interview with journalists at the tribunal
pre-hearing in Abuja, Uzoukwu expressed his determination to focus on
presenting the most vital witnesses during the three weeks given to his legal
team to present their case. He emphasized that his team had sent five letters
to INEC, clearly indicating their readiness to pay and collect the necessary
documents. These letters were duly received and endorsed by INEC. Uzoukwu
expressed frustration over INEC’s false claims that they couldn’t accept
payment, deeming it unfortunate.
Uzoukwu highlighted that his party would serve INEC with a
subpoena as soon as the hearing resumed on May 30, which interestingly was a
day after the presidential inauguration. This subpoena aimed to compel INEC to
produce the withheld documents. He firmly stated that his team would make
efficient use of the three-week period by focusing on presenting the most
essential witnesses who could substantiate their case.
Regarding the consolidation of petitions, Uzoukwu clarified
that all three petitions would be heard together. However, each petition would
maintain its own identity throughout the proceedings.
The stage was set for an intense legal battle as Livy
Uzoukwu, representing Peter Obi and the Labour Party, vowed to expose alleged
misconduct by INEC. With his determination to uncover the truth and present
compelling witnesses, the forthcoming weeks promised to be critical in the
pursuit of justice and a fair electoral process.
