7th October, 2023
By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has rescinded its decision to appeal against the nullification of its declaration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) as the winner of the March 18 governorship election in Kano by the state election petition tribunal.
The Kano State Governorship Election Tribunal had sacked Governor Yusuf and ordered INEC to issue a Certificate of Return to the All Progressive Congress, APC candidate, Dr. Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna.
However, in a letter addressed to the Secretary of Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, signed by Suleiman Alkali, Head of Department (HOD), Legal, INEC, on behalf of the Resident Electoral Commissioner, the electoral umpire said it has no reason to appeal the Tribunal judgement.
Alkali stated that: “I have been instructed by the Commission headquarters that INEC as an umpire have no reason to appeal any Judgement.
“Consequently, the National Commissioner in charge of Legal Services and National Commissioner in charge of Kano zone are directed that the Appeal be withdrawn and all processes for all Appeals should be forwarded to the Kano Office.”
Our Correspondent reports that Governor Yusuf is not leaving any stone unturned to retain his seat as he has already engaged the services of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Chief Wole Olanipekun to reclaim his “victory.”
Olanipekun is handling Governor Yusuf’s Appeal with his entire Chamber.
Governor Yusuf has filed a 42-ground appeal before the Appeal Court sitting in Kano, requesting for the nullification of the Tribunal judgement.
In the Notice of Appeal on Friday, Olanipekun is leading Bode Olanipekun (SAN), Ibrahim G. Waru, and Akintola Makinde, with Wole Olanipekun & Co. as the Legal Firm, handling Governor Yusuf’s case at the Appellate Court.
However, Chief E.O.B. Offiong (APC) remains the Counsel for the APC.
See the letter of withdrawal by INEC below
