The Court of Appeal in Abuja is set to deliver judgment for the Kano State Governorship Election appeal today, Friday, November 17, 2023.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) is contesting the decision of the Kano State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal, which upheld Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna of the All Progressive Congress (APC) as the winner of the March 18 governorship election.
Background
The Election Tribunal, led by Justice Oluyemi Akintan Osadebay, had nullified Governor Yusuf’s victory on September 20, 2023.
The tribunal declared 165,663 of his votes invalid, citing issues with unsigned or unstamped ballot papers by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Governor Yusuf expressed dissatisfaction with the tribunal’s ruling, labeling it as “unfair” and a “miscarriage of justice.”
Parties involved in the legal battle include Governor Yusuf and NNPP, as well as the opposition APC and INEC.
The Appeal Court’s decision, particularly anticipated by all parties, will play a crucial role in determining the rightful winner of the contested election.
In anticipation of the judgment, the Kano State Police Command has heightened security across the state.
Additional personnel have been deployed to strategic locations in the state metropolis to prevent any potential breach of law and order.
The police however have imposed a ban on political gatherings and raised concerns about suspected preparations for violent processions, protests, or celebrations that may lead to reactions.
Police Commissioner Usaini Gumel assured residents of adequate security before and after the judgment.
He advised against unguarded statements and cautioned against engaging in violent protests or celebrations that could provoke reactions in the commercial city.
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The security measures aim to maintain peace and order during this critical period of legal deliberation.