Possible Unsavoury Consequences if Tinubu Loses at the Election Tribunal
The Presidential Election Petition Tribunal in Nigeria is currently hearing cases against the declaration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the ruling political party, the All Progressives Congress, as the winner of February’s presidential elections. The Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has been given three weeks to prove his case regarding the outcome of the 2023 presidential election. The main hearing at the appeal court in Abuja commenced on Tuesday, May 23, and will end Friday, June 23.
Some of the allegations against Tinubu are:
1. He was involved in trading in narcotic, money laundering and global tax avoidance. The US Department of Justice alleged that from early 1988, accounts opened in the name of Bola Tinubu held the proceeds of sales of white heroin, a banned substance.
2. He was involved in perjury, identity theft, and criminal forgery of his credentials. A group called Concerned Nigerians filed a petition to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) accusing him of lying about his age, name, and educational qualifications.
3. He was involved in vote-buying during the 2019 elections. Onlookers witnessed two armoured vehicles, similar to bullion vans used by banks to transport cash, driving through his gates on election day in 2019.
Tinubu has denied all these allegations and said he made his fortune legitimately.
If he is found guilty of any of these allegations, he could face serious consequences, such as:
1. Prison sentences.
Depending on the severity and jurisdiction of the offense, he could be sentenced to several years in prison for each count of forgery, perjury, money laundering, or narcotics.
2. Fines and restitution.
He could also be ordered to pay hefty fines and restitution to the victims of his fraud or the government agencies that investigated his crimes.
3. Disqualification from office.
He could lose his eligibility to run for or hold any public office in Nigeria, as well as his voting rights and other civil rights.
4. Damage to reputation. He could suffer irreparable damage to his reputation and credibility as a political leader and a businessman.
The public view on Tinubu Is mixed and polarized. Some of his supporters admire him for his:
1. Political acumen.
He is widely regarded as a master strategist and a kingmaker who has helped many politicians win elections and secure appointments.
2. Economic achievements.
He is credited with transforming Lagos state into a modern and prosperous megacity during his tenure as governor and beyond.
3. Charisma and generosity.
He is known for his charm, eloquence, and philanthropy, especially towards the poor and vulnerable.
On the other hand, some of his critics dislike him for his:
1. Corruption allegations.
He is accused of various financial crimes, such as money laundering, tax evasion, forgery, and narcotics.
2. Authoritarian tendencies.
He is perceived as a power-hungry and domineering leader who imposes his will on others and silences dissent.
3. Ethnic bias.
He is seen as a sectional leader who favors his Yoruba ethnic group over other Nigerians and promotes tribalism.
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