Governor Caleb Mutfwang of the Peoples Democratic Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) secures victory with 525,299 votes, defeating APC’s Nentawe Yilwatda, who garnered 481,370 votes in Plateau State’s March 18 governorship poll, according to INEC.
Despite the Tribunal’s affirmation of Mutfwang’s win, the Court of Appeal in Abuja overturned it based on alleged PDP non-compliance with a High Court order. However, Supreme Court justices clarify that the order pertained to party internal affairs, not candidacy validity.
Justice Agim emphasizes the Court of Appeal’s lack of jurisdiction to assess PDP candidacy, stating Yilwatda has no right to challenge Mutfwang’s PDP ticket. The Supreme Court sets aside the Court of Appeal’s judgment, reinstates the tribunal’s decision, and upholds Mutfwang’s election.
In a concurring opinion, Justice Okoro criticizes the Court of Appeal’s decision, highlighting its negative impact. Justices Abba-Aji and Ogunwumiju agree, emphasizing the error in delving into party congress issues and shifting the burden of proof to Governor Mutfwang.
Justice Adamu Jauro supports the judgment at 2:10 p.m.
