JUST IN: Supreme Court affirms Sheriff Oborevwori as Delta PDP governorship candidate

Ibekimi Oriamaja Reports

A five-member panel of the apex court unanimously held that there was no merit in the suit filed by David Edevbie with respect to the Delta PDP governorship tussle.

The Supreme Court on Friday affirmed Sheriff Oborevwori as the governorship candidate of the PDP in Delta State’s 2023 election.

Delivering judgement in an appeal filed by David Edevbie challenging Mr Oborevwori’s candidacy, a five-member panel of the apex court led by Amina Augie held that there was no merit in the suit.

In the lead judgement delivered by Tijjani Abubakar, the Supreme Court upheld the legal reasoning of the Court of Appeal that the suit ought not to have been commenced by originating summons.

Mr Abubakar said issues bordering on serious allegations of fraud cannot be commenced by originating summons “as mere affidavits are not enough to address the issues.”

“Sundry allegations of fraud” by Mr Edevbie against Mr Oborevwori required calling of witnesses and oral testimony, Mr Abubakar said.

“I find no merit in this appeal and it is hereby dismissed. The decision of the Court of Appeal delivered on 29 August is hereby affirmed,” the Supreme Court held.

The apex court held that the Federal High Court erred when it nullified Mr Oborevwori’s nomination as PDP’s candidate for next year’s governorship election in Delta State.