MASSOUD ABDULRAHMAN OREDOLA, J.C.A. (Delivering the Leading Judgment): This is an appeal against the decision of the Governorship Election Tribunal (hereinafter called the tribunal) sitting at Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, contained in the ruling delivered on 18th July, 2011 wherein the tribunal granted the 1st and 2nd respondents' motion for dismissal of the appellant's petition among other order sought therein.
The appellants as petitioners filed Petition No. EPT/AKS/15/2011 on 16th May, 2011 to challenge the declaration and return of 1st and 2nd, respondent by the 4th respondent as winners of the governorship election, held on 26th April, 2011 in Akwa Ibom State Nigeria and as the elected Governor and Deputy Governor respectively of the State.
Upon service of the petition, the respondents filed their respective replies to the petition whereafter the appellants as petitioners applied for issuance of pre - hearing notice vide their letter dated 17th June, 2011 but filed on 27th June, 2011. …