The election petition tribunal in Lokoja, Kogi State, has upheld the victory of David Idris Zacharias, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate representing Idah Federal Constituency in the House of Representative.
The tribunal dismissed petitions brought forward by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Victor Uchola, who contested the 2023 National Assembly election.
The tribunal’s decision to dismiss Uchola’s petitions was primarily based on a lack of merit, and in response, it ordered both the candidate and the PDP to pay a fine of N200,000 for each of the three count charges.
The tribunal also imposed an extra N100,000 fine on them for what it considered a waste of the court’s time, amounting to a total penalty of N700,000.
Following the tribunal’s ruling, Zacharias expressed his unwavering faith in the judiciary as the last resort for the common citizen.
He voiced his confidence in retaining the mandate bestowed upon him by the constituents and the people of Kogi.
Zacharias emphasised that the tribunal’s judgment was a true reflection of the people’s will and aspirations as expressed during the polls.
He extended an olive branch to his opponent, stressing that there were no victors or vanquishers in this election.
His primary objective, he affirmed, was the development of the constituency, and he urged his opponent to collaborate for the greater good of the people of Idah.
The APC candidate also commended his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), for standing by him and having faith in his abilities.
He called on his supporters to celebrate this victory with magnanimity while ensuring law and order within the constituency and throughout the state.
David Idris Zacharias remains the representative for Idah Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, with the tribunal’s decision solidifying his electoral victory and positioning him to continue his service to the people of Kogi.
