The petitions of Peter Obi of the Labour Party (LP) and Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were found to be without merit by a five-member panel chaired by Justice Haruna Tsammani.

The petitioner’s failed to prove their allegations beyond a reasonable doubt, according to the chairman of the five-member panel, who gave the lead judgment.

Justice Tsammani held that the petitions lack merit and were consequently dismissed.

He also ruled that each party would be responsible for their own costs.

In his reaction, Tinubu called for collective efforts to build the nation, saying he welcomed the judgment with sense of responsibility and preparedness to serve all Nigerians, irrespective of all diverse political persuasions, faiths, and tribal identities.

In a statement on Wednesday by his spokesman, Ajuri Ngelale, Tinubu, who assured Nigerians of his renewed and energised focus on delivering his vision of a unified, peaceful and prosperous nation, recognised the diligence, undaunted thoroughness, and professionalism of the five-member bench, led by Justice Haruna Tsammani in interpreting the law.

The president said his commitment to the rule of law, and “the unhindered discharge of duties” by the tribunal, as witnessed in the panel’s exclusive respect for the merits of the petitions brought forward, further reflected the continuing maturation of Nigeria’s legal system, and the advancement of Africa’s largest democracy at a time when our democratic system of government is under test in other parts of the continent.

President Tinubu expressed belief that the presidential candidates and political parties that had “lawfully exercised their rights by participating in the 2023 general elections and the judicial process, which followed, have affirmed Nigeria’s democratic credentials.”

The president challenged his brave rivals to instill in their supporters a sense of patriotism that would always be lifted above political concerns and evident in support for our government’s efforts to raise the standard of living for all Nigerians.

By the grace of God Almighty and through extremely hard work with the team that has been assembled for that specific reason, President Tinubu promised to meet and exceed Nigerians’ expectations while once again thanking them for the mandate granted to him to serve our country.