Appeal Court Ruling: I’m Undeterred, Says Governor Dauda Lawal

Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has said he remains undeterred following the Appeal Court’s Thursday declaration of the state’s gubernatorial election as inconclusive. Recall that the Appeal Court in Abuja voided the election that produced Lawal as winner while declaring a rerun in three local government areas. In response to the ruling, Governor Lawal expressed confidence in the unwavering support of the people for progress and development in the state. Terming the court’s decision as a “temporary setback,” Governor Lawal reaffirmed his resolute commitment to honouring the people’s mandate.  He assured Zamfara citizens of his dedication to pursuing all legal avenues to ensure a fair and just resolution. “The ruling by the Appeal Court is a temporary setback,” said Governor Lawal.  “However, I remain optimistic that the collective decision of the people will ultimately prevail.” Acknowledging the challenges faced during the previous election, Governor Lawal emphasized his determination to uphold what he termed the “widely acclaimed mandate” and called for calm among the populace while his legal team rigorously reviews the verdict. “We will emerge victorious,” Governor Lawal affirmed.  “Our unwavering determination and steadfast commitment leave no room for doubt or fear.” Amidst the ongoing legal proceedings, the governor urged the people of Zamfara to remain composed, stating, “Our legal team is thoroughly reviewing the verdict. We will follow through with the necessary actions to achieve a just outcome.”

Tribunal Declares Kaduna Governorship Election Inconclusive

The Kaduna Governorship Election Petition Tribunal has declared the governorship election held on March, 18 as inconclusive. In a split decision of a ratio of 2:1, the three-man tribunal panel led by Justice Victor Oviawe declared the election inconclusive and directed that a supplementary election should be held by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) within 90 days. INEC is also to conduct election in seven wards, four local govts, 24 polling units consisting of 16,300 register voters. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is challenging the election of Uba Sani as the Governor of Kaduna State on the grounds of alleged irregularities and electoral fraud, saying that its candidate, Isa Mohammed Ashiru won the election. During the hearing of the petition, the PDP and Ashiru called 24 witnesses and presented claims and documents to prove their case.