The National and State House of Assembly Election Petition Tribunal in Kano has delivered its verdict on the Kano South Senatorial District election held on 25th February 2023. The tribunal has upheld the victory of Kawu Sumaila, who contested under the New Nigeria People's Party (NNPP).
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Kawu Sumaila as the winner of the senatorial election, with a total of 319,557 votes. He emerged victorious over his closest rival, Kabiru Gaya, who ran on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and secured 192,518 votes.
Following his defeat, Gaya filed a petition challenging Sumaila's victory at the election petition tribunal. However, on Monday, the tribunal dismissed the petition, deeming it grossly incompetent. The tribunal chairman, R. Odogu, stated that the petitioner failed to provide sufficient evidence to support his claims against the respondent, Kawu Sumaila.
"We find no merit in this petitioner and accordingly hereby dismissed," stated Odogu. "We similarly affirmed the declaration of Abdulrahman Kawu Sumaila of NNPP as the winner of the Kano South Senatorial District election, held on 25th Feb. 2023."
In addition to dismissing the petition, the tribunal ordered the APC candidate, Kabiru Gaya, to pay a fine of N200,000. This decision further solidifies Kawu Sumaila's victory and serves as a deterrent against baseless challenges to election results.
The outcome of this case reinforces the importance of evidence and the burden of proof in election petitions. It affirms the credibility and integrity of INEC's declaration and reinforces trust in the electoral process.
Kawu Sumaila's victory in the Kano South Senatorial District election is a significant milestone for the NNPP, as it secures a seat in the National and State House of Assembly. Sumaila's commitment to serving his constituents, backed by the support of over 300,000 voters, demonstrates his capability as a representative of the people.
This decision by the tribunal will help ensure that the will of the people prevails in future elections and discourages unfounded challenges to electoral outcomes. The ruling sets a precedent for accountability and transparency, promoting a fair political landscape in Nigeria. It reinforces the democratic principles of free and fair elections, ultimately strengthening the country's democratic institutions.
As Kano South Senatorial District rejoices in the affirmation of their chosen representative, Kawu Sumaila, the NNPP gains momentum as a political force. Kawu Sumaila now has the opportunity to fulfill his campaign promises, address the concerns of his constituents, and contribute to the development of Kano State and Nigeria as a whole.
Source of content: OOO News 2023-09-12 News
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