In a pivotal moment for Nigerian politics, the Supreme Court delivered its judgment on the February 25, 2023 presidential poll, with the notable absence of key figures including the PDP’s presidential candidate, Atiku, and APC’s Bola Tinubu.
The apex court’s decision follows the seven-month legal battle that ensued after the Presidential Election Petitions Court affirmed Tinubu’s victory on September 6. Atiku and Obi, dissatisfied with the ruling, appealed to the Supreme Court, whose verdict, announced on October 26, marks the final resolution of the election disputes.
The absence of prominent figures, including President Tinubu, adds intrigue to this concluding chapter in the judicial saga.
The courtroom was filled with anticipation as Senior Advocates of Nigeria, other lawyers, and notable figures, such as the chairmen of the APC and Labour Party, Abdullahi Ganduje and Julius Abure, gathered to witness the historic decision.
However, the absence of President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima was conspicuous.
Additionally, Atiku and his running mate, Ifeanyi Okowa, as well as Obi and his running mate, Senator Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, were noticeably not present during the announcement of the Supreme Court’s final verdict.