Upholding Judicial Integrity: Yoruba Youth Coalition Addresses Concerns Over Kano Election Ruling*

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

In a joint press conference, a coalition of Yoruba youth groups, civil society organizations (CSOs), and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) expressed deep concerns about recent Court of Appeal rulings on the Kano State Governorship election.

The coalition, which includes the Yoruba Youth Network (YYN), the Odua Progressive Peoples Assembly (OPPA), the South West Blossom Brigade (SBB), and others, stressed the critical importance of maintaining the integrity, independence, and transparency of Nigeria’s justice system.

The coalition raised alarms regarding the controversial Appeal Court rulings, particularly in the case of the Kano Governorship election between Abba Kabir and APC. They cautioned against compromising the judiciary and highlighted the need to preserve its role as a cornerstone of democracy and justice.

In a statement signed by the convener of the Coalition, Comr. Razak Olukayode, they expressed concerns over the deviation from established principles of electoral jurisprudence in the Abba v APC case. They pointed out that the Court of Appeal’s decision on the issue of nomination and sponsorship, falling under pre-election matters, contradicted previous judicial authorities, including the recent Peter Obi v INEC case. The coalition emphasized that only the Federal High Court has jurisdiction over nomination issues.

One of the primary grievances addressed by the coalition was the nullification of 166,000 votes from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in favor of the All Progressives Congress (APC), leading to the removal of incumbent governor Abba Kabir Yusuf. They argued that the Appeal Court’s decision lacked proper justification, raising doubts about the impartiality of the judiciary.

The coalition highlighted inconsistencies in the court’s judgments, notably the contrasting treatment of irregularities in the Kano case compared to the case of Governor Adeleke. The nullification of votes in Kano, while not taking similar action in Governor Adeleke’s case, showcased an inconsistency in applying legal principles and jeopardized equal treatment before the law.

Concerns were also raised about discrepancies between the court’s oral judgment and the Certified True Copy of the Judgment in the Kano governorship election. These discrepancies, according to the coalition, cast doubts on the transparency and integrity of the judicial process, leading to confusion among the public and eroding trust in the judiciary.

The coalition called for a comprehensive review of the electoral laws and the judicial process, cautioning against setting dangerous precedents for future elections. They stressed the need for a balance between upholding the rule of law and respecting the democratic will of the people.

In conclusion, the coalition urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to act as a true statesman by upholding the principles of separation of powers, particularly the independence of the judiciary. They emphasized the importance of avoiding interference with the course of justice, highlighting the potential threats to democratic institutions and the rule of law.