The Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal has continued the hearing of the case presented by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar.
POLITICS NIGERIA reports that one of the key points of contention currently under consideration is the application for live coverage of the proceedings.
Representing Atiku and the PDP, Chris Uche stressed the national significance of the case and emphasised the importance of allowing the public to witness the trial firsthand.
Uche submitted a motion on May 7, requesting the court to grant permission to televise the proceedings while seeking guidance on the implementation logistics.
Uche assured that the introduction of cameras would not detract from the solemnity and seriousness of the courtroom but rather provide an objective means for all to observe the proceedings.
However, Abubakar Mahmoud, representing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), disagreed, arguing that allowing cameras in the courtroom would compromise the solemn atmosphere it traditionally holds. Mahmoud insisted that the work should proceed in a dignified manner, without the intrusion of cameras.
The legal counsel for the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu, Wole Olanipekun, expressed surprise at the application for live coverage, highlighting the serious nature of the case and emphasising that the courtroom should not be treated as a stadium or theatre.
Adding to the debate, Lateef Fagbemi, representing the APC, drew a striking comparison, stating that televising the proceedings would be akin to the popular reality TV show, BBNaija (Big Brother Nigeria).
The tribunal is scheduled to deliver its ruling on Friday, May 19, coinciding with the hearing of a similar application by the Labour Party (LP).
