KEKERE-EKUN, JSC (DELIVERING THE LEADING JUDGMENT): This appeal was heard on 27 January 2016 after hearing submissions from the learned counsel. I pronounced my judgment allowing the appeal and adjourned till today to give my reasons for allowing the appeal. I now proceed to do so. This is an appeal against the judgment of the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division delivered on 16 December 2015 affirming the judgment of the Rivers State Governorship Election Tribunal (hereinafter referred to as the Tribunal) delivered on 24 October 2015, which nullified the election and return of the appellant as Governor of Rivers State and ordered the conduct of a fresh election.
Election into the office of the Governor of Rivers State was conducted by the 3rd respondent (INEC) on 11 and 12 April 2015.
The appellant, who was sponsored by the 4th respondent (Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) was returned elected, having scored the majority of lawful votes cast. The 1st respondent also contested the election on …