The Benue State Local Government Elections Petition Tribunal, sitting at the NBA House in Abuja, has nullified the election of Melvin Ejeh as Executive Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area, declaring Napoleon Otache as the rightful winner.
The decision came after a petition was filed contesting the validity of the Agatu local government election, one of 23 LGAs in the state.
Reacting to the judgment, Melvin Ejeh expressed strong disapproval, calling it a “total miscarriage of justice,” and vowed to challenge the verdict in court.
“My fellow Agatu citizens, you are aware of the grave injustice served in my case—despite having the same facts and evidence as those in other LGAs across Benue,” Ejeh said in a statement.
He emphasized that he remains the lawful chairman until the appellate court rules, and urged the community to stay peaceful and united.
“Let’s stay calm and united. My team of lawyers has already filed an appeal. I assure you that the mandate you gave me cannot be stolen,” he added, expressing confidence that the appeal will overturn the tribunal’s decision.