In the build up to the November 11, 2023 governorship election in Kogi state, Alhaji Muritala Yakubu Ajaka, the SDP Candidate, was embroiled in a certificate forgery scandal. The accusation sparked a debate on whether he was qualified for the race.
The allegations against him directly point to certificate forgery, with Barewa College testifying that he was not a student of the institution according to the WAEC records. Despite this serious allegation, there was no clear denial or refutation from Ajaka, leaving the public in a state of confusion.
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A lawsuit was filed at the High Court in Lokoja, Kogi State, claiming that the Social Democratic Party (SDP) provided false information on Form EC9, a crucial document in the electoral process. The crux of the matter revolves around the alleged forgery of academic credentials, which is a grave offense under Nigerian law. The lawsuit cites Section 158(2) of the Penal Code, which outlines the punishment for such an offense.
Section 158(2) states that anyone who knowingly creates or uses a false document with the intent to deceive or defraud shall be subject to imprisonment for up to seven years, a fine, or both.
Despite the election has taken place, Muritala Yakubu Ajaka or SDP has yet to publicly address these weighty allegation. No definite position was also heard from the court. It is crucial for the public, especially the people of Kogi state to be informed of the court’s decision regarding this act of misdemeanor, considering that he is currently challenging the election result in the tribunal. It is worrisome that someone with illegitimate qualification like Muri Ajaka was allowed to participate in the election and even challenging its outcome.
Written by Abdulmalik Ibrahim in Lokoja.
