The Oyo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal has commenced sitting with a warning against frivolous applications capable of slowing down operations of the tribunal.

The Chairman of tribunal, Justice F.C. Obieze, gave the warning during the inaugural sitting at State High Court, Iyaganku, Ibadan, where he maintained that the panel is looking forward to a fruitful session during its 180 days life span as stipulated by the Constitution.

Obieze and other members of the panel, Justice I.M. Muhammed Karaye and Justice J.E. Ikede promised that the tribunal will disperse justice without fair or favour.

He assured that the panel would be fair to all parties involved and shall be sitting from day to day including Saturdays.

Responding, the state branch Chairman of Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Barr. Kazeem Gbadamosi, pledged and assured the panel of full cooperation and diligent in practice.

Also speaking, the Counsel to the petitioner, Sen. Rasheed Ladoja, Barr. Richard Ogunwole (SAN), said all the evidences are ready and there will be no reason for any delay.

Oluwole Aina and Babatunde Aiku who appeared for the respondent also pledged their cooperation to accelerate the hearing of all petitions.

Senator Rasheed Ladoja of the Accord Party had filled 20 petitions challenging the victory of Governor Abiola Ajimobi during the April 11 governorship election.

Accord Party also petitioned two Senatorial elections, Six House of Reps election and Eleven State House of Assembly elections.

Other respondents joined in the petition included, All Progressives Congress (APC), Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state, Dr. Rufus Akeju.

•Sourced from Channels TV. Photo shows Governor Ajimobi.

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