Tribunal fixes date to hear PDM’s application to withdraw petition against Buhari

The Presidential Election Petition Tribunal on Wednesday fixed July 18 to entertain an application filed by the National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM), Chief Frank Igwebuike, seeking to withdraw from challenging President Muhammadu Buhari’s re-election.

Justice Mohammed Garba fixed the date after the panel found out that the application was not ripe for hearing.

PDM and its candidate, Mr Aminchi Habu had jointly filed the petition to challenge the outcome of the Feb.23 presidential election.

Mr Morrison Onunu, Counsel for the national chairman of the party had informed the tribunal of his desire to file further counter affidavit against Habu’s reply to the application.

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However, Mr Yunus Usman, SAN, Counsel for Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, Counsel for the president, and Mr Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, Counsel for the All Progressive Congress (APC) urged the court to hear the application.

The applicant seeks an order striking out the second petitioner (PDM) as a petitioner In the suit.

Igwebuike is also seeking such further or other orders as the court may deem fit to make in the circumstances.

Speaking to newsmen after the session, Onunu, said the decision to apply for the withdrawal of the petition was in the interest of the nation.

“We have resolved not to be part of those using the tribunal to distract the president from doing his job.

“The party is also interested in the peace presently enjoyed in the country and would not use this petition to destabilize the country,’’ Onunu said.

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