Senator Diket Plang’s election to the Plateau Central Senatorial District has been confirmed by the National and State Assembly Election Petition Tribunal in Jos, Plateau State.
Justice Omaka Elekwa delivered the lead decision via Zoom, dismissing the appeal filed by Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate Yohanna Gotom against the election of Senator Diket Plang of the All Progressive Congress (APC).
According to Justice Elekwa, the dismissal of the petition was premised on the fact that the result of the election is credible and reliable.
It further held that the results of the 34 polling units in Gagdi ward of Kanam local government area were authentic, noting that the returning officer, Professor Sunday Dabi, had no power to cancel them.
Justice Elekwa further held that the declaration by Professor Dabi that the elections in those polling units were inconclusive is null and void, adding that there was no overvoting.
The tribunal then went ahead to hold that the petitioner was not properly sponsored by a political party and, as such, lacked locus standi to challenge the outcome of the election.
The chairman of the tribunal, Justice Tukur, and Justice Adetujoye concurred with the lead judgment.
However, in a statement after the judgment, Senator Diket Plang commended the Tribunal for the judgment, adding that the outcome has further reinforced the belief of Nigerians in the judiciary.
The Senator who described the judgement as a victory for democracy, added that it was a demonstration that the votes given to him during the election were not in vain.
He assured the people of his constituency of quality representation at the Senate and also promised to double up its efforts towards ensuring that the dividends of democracy are delivered to the people.
“First of all, I thank God for letting us see this day. I am overwhelmed by the judgment and support given to me by the people of Plateau Central both during and after the election. I promise to keep faith in the mandate they have given me.
“I want to say that there is still hope in this country,” he said.