NASIR, P.C.A., (Delivering the Leading Judgment): As part of the Transition to Civil Rule programme elections were held throughout the Federation on the 14th December, 1991. This was done under the State Government (Basic Constitutional and Transition Provisions) Decree 1991 (1991 No. 50 hereinafter called Decree 50) for the elections of the Governors and members of the Houses of Assembly of the various States. In Taraba State the contest was between Dr. Ahmed Vsman Jalingo of the National Republican Convention and Reverend Jolly T. Nyame of the Social Democratic Party. At the end of election Reverend Jolly T. Nyarne was successful and was so declared by the Resident Commissioner, Professor Pius Sada, acting for and on behalf of the National Electoral Commission.
Dr. Jalingo (hereinafter called the Appellant) being dissatisfied with the result and the declaration of Rev. Jolly T. Nyame as the successful candidate filed an election petition before the Governorship and Legislative House…