Just In: Tribunal sacks prominent Senator, gives fresh order

The senatorial election petitions tribunal in Asaba, Delta state, has sacked Senator Thomas Onowakpo, the lawmaker representing Delta South.

The candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Michael Diden, had approached the tribunal with his petition seeking the disqualification of the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate.

He argued that the electoral body did not follow the Electoral Act before declaring APC winner of the election.

On Wednesday, September 6, the tribunal chairman, Justice Catherine Ogunsola, ruled that Onowakpo’s certificate of return be withdrawn.

It also ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a supplementary election in Warri South local government area (LGA) of the state within 90 days.

Thomas Onowakpo's removal: INEC reacts

Speaking shortly after the judgment, Clark Ekpebe, INEC's counsel, said they would study the judgment.

Ekpebe added that the commission still has the option of an appeal.

He said: “The judgment has been given and we will go home and study the judgment. We have been asked to withdraw his certificate of return and conduct a supplementary election within 90 days.

“We have 60 days in the 90 days. Don’t forget we have an option of appealing the case.”