Ararume vs INEC New Judges Take over Case

It was yet another disappointment for counsel, interested parties and individuals who are eager to witness or hear of the commencement of the hearing of the Appeal filed by Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and its Governorship candidate Sen. Ifeanyi Ararume against the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) over the legality and constitutionality of the supplementary election of 6 May 2011 in Imo state that brought Gov Rochas Anayo Okorocha to the saddle as the Executive Governor of the State.

The eager and consciousness of the people was quelled yesterday at the Appeal Court Owerri when the case was called up for hearing, as the presiding Judge, Hon Justice Abba Aji announced a change of panel for the appeal “We are sorry, another panel has been instituted by the acting Deputy President of the Appeal Court to take over the matter from us” Hon Justice Abba Aji disclosed also that the panel has scheduled Monday 21^st to commence the hearing.

However, the Counsel to All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) and Gov Okorocha who all were joined as interested party in the case, Chief Niyi Akintola objected on the 21^st Jan date fixed by the new panel saying that he will be having another matter in Abuja same date.

In their different responses, both Bar C.O Madu of the Appellant Counsel and Dr Laden of the first respondent (INEC) were of the opinion that the suitable adjournment date should depend on the new panel.

Consequently, the panel aligned with Bar Madu and Dr Laden, to adjourn the case sine die saying that they will get back to the panel who will determined if their 21^st fixed date still holds or not with a hearing notice to parties.