As the Supreme Court this Tuesday is delivering its make or mar judgment in the disputed July 16, 2022 Governorship election in Osun State, there is pin-drop silence, and palpitating hearts on both sides of the divide, can almost be heard in the courtroom.
Many of the supporters are tense with hands tightened between their thighs, while others stare at the justices with rapt attention. Some lips move, either in prayers or incantations, hoping to sway the justices.
The lawyers appear calm, but it is obvious that beneath the white wigs and black robes, many are also ill at ease.
The apex court fixed on Monday fixed today (Tuesday) for the judgment delivery after taking arguments from parties involved in the matter.
At the centre of the disputed election is the incumbent Governor Ademola Nurudeen Adeleke who stood for the poll on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and Adegboyega Oyetola who was the All Progressives Congress (APC) Governorship candidate.
However, while Oyetola is the appellant in the instant matter in the Supreme Court, having lost at the Court of Appeal, Adeleke is the major respondent being the winner of the Court of Appeal decision.
The Supreme Court will deliver the final verdict by 2 pm of May 9.
At the proceedings, Prince Lateef Fagbemi SAN argued for the APC.
The Court of Appeal in Abuja had on Friday March 24 vacated the tribunal judgment that nullified the election of Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State.
The appellate court, in a unanimous decision by a three-member panel of Justices, held that the appeal Adeleke lodged to challenge his sack by the Osun State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, was meritorious.
Aside from setting aside the judgment of the tribunal, the court, in its lead judgment that was delivered by Justice Mohammed Lawal, awarded N500, 000 cost against the All Progressive Congress, APC, and its candidate, Gboyega Oyetola
