In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court has officially declared Abba Kabir Yusuf as the duly elected Governor of Kano State.
The lead judgment was delivered by Justice John Iyang Okoro, bringing an end to a contentious legal battle that has gripped the state for months.
The crux of the matter revolved around the 165,000 ballots that were returned to the NNPP (New Nigeria People’s Party) by the Supreme Court.
Addressing the issue of Mr. Yusuf’s membership with NNPP, Justice Okoro clarified the tribunal’s stance, emphasizing that Governor Yusuf’s qualification for the 18 March election was not disputed.
Notably, the APC (All Progressives Congress) governorship candidate, Nasiru Gawuna, contended that Governor Yusuf’s election should not have been sponsored by the party.
However, Justice Okoro firmly rejected this argument, stating that the tribunal had never asserted that Governor Yusuf was unqualified to contest the election, as erroneously interpreted by the Court of Appeal.
In a significant ruling, Justice Okoro underscored that the matter of nomination falls within the internal affairs of a political party and, therefore, is not subject to judicial review.
“The issue of nomination is exclusively the internal affairs of a political party. Therefore, it is not justiceable,” declared Justice Okoro, settling the debate on the eligibility of Governor Yusuf to vie for the gubernatorial seat.
This verdict from the Supreme Court not only solidifies Abba Kabir Yusuf’s position as the legitimate Governor of Kano State but also establishes a precedent emphasizing the autonomy of political parties in matters of internal affairs.
The return of the 165,000 ballots to NNPP further underscores the clarity brought about by this legal resolution.