In a significant legal victory, the Enugu State Governor, Barrister Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, emerged triumphant as the Federal High Court in Abuja dismissed allegations of forgery of a discharge certificate brought against him by the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
Justice Inyang Eden Ekwo delivered the verdict on Monday, ruling in favor of Governor Mbah after the NYSC failed to substantiate the allegations and defend its claims in court.
The judge’s decision to dismiss the allegations came after the Corps was unable to provide substantial evidence to support its case, as required by law.
In his judgment, Justice Ekwo imposed a fine of N5 million on the NYSC. This penalty is to be paid jointly to Governor Mbah, with the court deeming the Corps guilty of suppressing facts and conspiring against the governor in the baseless accusations.
During the court proceedings, the plaintiff, Governor Mbah, presented unchallenged evidence detailing how the discharge certificate was lawfully issued to him in 2003 by the NYSC, following his service at a law firm in Lagos.
The judge noted that the NYSC failed to present any counter-evidence to dispute Governor Mbah’s claims. As a result, the court found it unequivocally established that the governor had fulfilled the mandatory one-year national service requirement.
Justice Ekwo emphasized that the burden of proof in forgery allegations lies squarely on the NYSC. However, the Corps failed to meet this burden, rendering Governor Mbah’s evidence more substantial and credible.
The ruling affirmed the authenticity of the discharge certificate held by the governor, vindicating him from the false accusations made by the NYSC.
The legal battle began when Governor Mbah filed a lawsuit against the NYSC and its Director, Corps Certification, Ibrahim Muhammad.
The case stemmed from a disclaimer published by the NYSC on February 1, wherein the Corps denied issuing the discharge certificate in Governor Mbah’s possession.
The court’s decision not only exonerates Governor Mbah but also sends a strong message about the importance of presenting accurate and substantiated evidence in legal proceedings.
It underscores the need for meticulousness and responsibility when making allegations, particularly when they concern public figures and their reputations.
Governor Mbah’s victory in this case marks a pivotal moment, reaffirming the integrity of the legal system and serving as a reminder of the importance of fairness and justice in upholding the truth.
The ruling stands as a testament to the rule of law and the commitment of the judiciary to uphold justice and protect the rights of individuals, even in the face of formidable adversaries.
