FACT CHECK: Did court sack Donatus Matthew, the okada rider who won Rep seat in Kaduna?

News emerged late Friday night that the Kaduna State National Assembly Election Petition Tribunal has dismissed the lawmaker representing Kaura Federal Constituency, Hon. Donatus Matthew, in the House of Representatives.

According to the viral report, the tribunal nullified Donatus Matthew’s election, who previously worked as an Okada rider and contested on the platform of the Labour Party (LP).

The grounds for nullification were cited as the LP’s failure to comply with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022 during their primary elections. Instead, the tribunal declared Hon. Gideon Gwani, the candidate of the PDP, as the winner of the February 25 National Assembly election.

The initial report originated from Journalist KC on Twitter, where he stated, “The Kaduna State National Assembly Election Petition Tribunal has sacked another LP alleged Member, Hon Donatus Mathew, from the House of Representatives and declared the PDP candidate as the winner.”

CONFLICTING REPORT
However, there is a conflicting report from a Twitter user, Duke of Africa, who accused PDP members of starting the rumors. According to his claim, Donatus actually emerged victorious at the tribunal. He wrote, “PDP boys, the Fake News Merchants, started this news about Hon. Donatus Mathew being sacked by the court in Kaduna State, whereas it was all a lie. He was the one who won at the tribunal. Congratulations to the common man.”

VERIFICATION
As of now, neither Donatus Matthew nor the acclaimed winner, Hon. Gideon Gwani, has reacted to the report.

To obtain accurate and up-to-date information, it is advisable to refer to reputable news sources, official statements from the judiciary, or verified social media accounts of relevant authorities involved in the matter.

Always exercise caution and verify news before accepting it as true, especially when conflicting reports are circulating.