Supreme Court Reserves Judgment In Kano Governorship Election

The Supreme Court, led by Justice Inyang Okoro, has reserved judgment in the appeal filed by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State, challenging the Appeal Court's ruling that ousted him from office.

Closing arguments from both parties were heard by the five-member panel of judges.

Yusuf and the New Nigeria People Party appealed the November 17 ruling by the Court of Appeal, which declared Yusuf Gawuna of the All Progressives Congress as the winner of the March 26, 2023 governorship poll.

Yusuf, determined to reclaim his mandate, previously sacked by the electoral tribunal and upheld by the Appeal Court, remains resolute in his legal battle.

The Appeal Court, affirming the tribunal's decision in Abuja, stated that Yusuf was unqualified to contest, citing absence from the party's membership register and non-compliance with electoral guidelines.

Yusuf's counsel, Wole Olanipekun (SAN), urged the apex court to set aside the decision, challenging the basis of nullifying the election.

The court questioned the legality of the ballots, with Olanipekun arguing against the unprecedented nullification based on unsigned and unstamped ballot papers.

APC's counsel, Akin Olujimi, maintained that INEC's presiding officers must sign the back of ballots, emphasizing electoral irregularities on the disputed papers.

INEC's counsel, A.B Mahmoud, supported Olanipekun's arguments, deeming lower court decisions flawed.

Counsel for NNPP, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, urged the restoration of canceled votes, arguing that the tribunal erred in recounting ballots in chambers.

After hearing arguments, the Supreme Court has reserved judgment on this pivotal matter

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