The Federal High Court in Abuja has ruled on a suit aimed at disqualifying the All Progressives Congress governorship candidate in Bayelsa State, Timipre Sylva, from the upcoming November 11 governorship election.
The suit, filed by Isikima Johnson, challenged Sylva’s eligibility for the governorship race, alleging that Sylva had taken the oath of allegiance as a governor on two separate occasions, making him unqualified.
Additionally, Johnson raised allegations of irregularities in the APC primary election held on April 14, 2023, which resulted in Sylva emerging as the governorship candidate.
However, Justice Inyang Ekwo has dismissed the suit, citing a lack of merit.
The court also rejected the suit on the grounds that it was not filed within the stipulated 14-day timeframe from the occurrence of the subject matter, rendering it academic.
Ekwo said, “In all, I find the case of the plaintiff to be weak, having not been established by preponderance of evidence as required by law.
“In the same vein, the case of the plaintiff, having been demolished by overwhelming exhibits tendered by the APC and Timipre Sylva, has no legs to stand upon in the face of the law.
“I make an order, dismissing this case and it is hereby dismissed for lacking in merit,” Justice Ekwo held.
