In a significant turn of events, the Kano Governorship Election Petition Tribunal has made a ruling that has major implications for the political landscape in Kano State, Nigeria. The tribunal has ousted Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and declared the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Nasiru Gawuna, as the rightful winner of the March 18 election.
Abba Kabir Yusuf contested the election under the banner of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and was initially declared the victor by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) following the March poll. However, the recent tribunal decision has reshaped the electoral outcome.
The tribunal’s three-man panel, after carefully examining the petitions, made several key determinations. Firstly, it ordered the withdrawal of the certificate of return that INEC had originally presented to Governor Yusuf. In its place, the tribunal directed that a certificate of return should be issued to Nasiru Gawuna.
NNPP Extends Its Congratulations To Kano State Governor-Elect Kabir
One of the most critical aspects of this decision was the tribunal’s deduction of 165,663 votes from Governor Yusuf’s total. These votes were deemed invalid due to a lack of stamping or signing, rendering them ineligible. This adjustment significantly affected the final vote tally, ultimately leading to the change in the election’s outcome.
This ruling comes approximately six months after Nasiru Gawuna, the APC candidate, had already accepted defeat. In a brief audio statement on March 29, Gawuna, citing his adherence to his faith as a Muslim, acknowledged the election results and conceded victory to Governor Yusuf. His campaign team had initially requested a review of the election results from INEC, which subsequently confirmed Yusuf as the winner.
The recent tribunal decision has now reversed this outcome, underscoring the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of Nigerian politics and electoral processes. As Nasiru Gawuna assumes the role of Governor of Kano State, it remains to be seen how this change will impact the state’s governance and political landscape.
Follow us on Facebook
Post Disclaimer
The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author and forum participants on this website do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Anaedo Online or official policies of the Anaedo Online.