Tribunal victory a reaffirmation of my people's desire - Akwaji

Hon. Godwin Akwaji, member representating Obudu State Constituency

Member representing Obudu State Constituency in the  Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Godwin Akwaji has stated that his victory at the Election Petition Tribunal only reaffirmed his constituents desire and choice for him to hold their mandate in the assembly.

Apostle Godwin Ukpanukpong of the APC had petitioned Akwaji's victory alleging that he was wrongfully excluded from participating in the election by the Independent National Electoral Commission "INEC". 

The  three man Tribunal Chaired by Justice Vincent Agbata with Ishaku Kunda and Abubaka Bello as members held that exclusion issue was a pre-election matter which the tribunal lacks jurisdiction to entertain.

According to the judgment read by Chairman of the panel, Justice Agbata, "the issue of exclusion is a pre-election matter and the petitioner failed to prove unlawful exclusion as claimed in the petition therefore this petition on this ground is struck out and hereby dismissed

Speaking shortly after the ruling, Akwaji said that the love and concern shown by his people during the last general elections was unprecedented as such he has no alternative than to offer effective and quality representation that will harness the needed democratic dividends to his constituents.

While noting that the judgement came at the right time as he prepares to celebrate Obudu annual new yam festival, the Lawmaker called on his supporters to remain calm and tolerate one another.

The Legislator who thanked God profusely for the victory also praised Governor Ben Ayade for his untiring support throughout the period of the legal tussle.