Tribunal: Amosun makes U turn, withdraws 25 witnesses, closes case

Following  dismal performance of Governor Ibikunle Amosun’s witnesses at the Tribunal on Wednesday, his Lead Counsel Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) yesterday technically beat a retreat and stopped  calling more witnesses.

He, however, closed his case abruptly.

Amsoun, the First Respondent in a petition filed by Ogun State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its governorship candidate Prince Gboyega Isiaka had listed 29 witnesses to defend sundry allegations that the April 11 election was marred with rigging and non-compliance with Electoral Acts.

On Wednesday when Amosun opened his defence, the four witnesses called by one of his Counsels, Dr Olumide Ayeni failed integrity test and could not substantiate their claims that April 11 election was credible  during cross examination by the Counsel to the Petitioners, Adetunji Oyeyipo (SAN).

Indeed, one of the witnesses (RW4), an HND 2 students of MAPOLY declined understanding of English Language and was allowed to speak Yoruba language during cross examination.

Besides, a document purported to have been emanated from the INEC to strengthen Amosun’s case was rejected by the tribunal.

The document was to be presented by the APC chairman in Odeda local council, Pastor Wale Onaolapo (RW3).

Knowing the damage their witnesses that  addressed court in Yoruba had caused, Fagbemi, who was not in court on Wednesday while the drama lasted stopped calling more witnesses despite the fact that many of them were already in court premises as early as 7am.

Speaking to Journalists after the  adjournment of the case to Monday when the Second Respondent (APC) will open its case, Fagbemi said “it would be suicidal to continue to call for more witnesses and expose our people to cross examination”.

“We are satisfied with the four witnesses called on Wednesday and we see no reason to bring 29 witnesses as planned before, after all the Petitioners called only 9 witnesses to argue their case”.

Meanwhile, spokesperson to Gboyega Nasir Campaign Organisation, Comrade Ifekayode Akinbode said “the tactical withdrawal of Amosun Counsels to present more witnesses will further strengthen Isiaka’s case that credible elections were not conducted by INEC in 9 local governments under contention.

“We are satisfied so far with the proceedings and signals of victory is getting clearer”.