Conflicting Interpretation Of Kaduna Election Tribunal Judgement; Gov Uba Says His Election Was Upheld, Issues Statement

By Ayodele Oni

The Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Kaduna has declared the March governorship election in Kaduna state inconclusive.

The petition was filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Isah Mohammed Ashiru to challenge the victory of Governor Sani Uba of the All Progressives Congress (APC)

PDP’s Ashiru 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  won the election.

The Tribunal during its resumed proceeding on Thursday, in a split decision of 2:1, declared the election inconclusive and directed that a supplementary election should be held by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) within 90 days.

A split judgement by the panel led by Justice Victor Oviawe  ordered a rerun of election in 24 polling units in seven wards of four local governments consisting of 16,300 registered voters.

The verdict was announced via Zoom after the judges shunned the physical hall.

Meanwhile, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani has welcomed the judgment of the Kaduna State Election Petition Tribunal which upheld his election in the March 18, 2023 Gubernatorial Elections.

He described the verdict as a win for democracy, the rule of law, validation of the people’s will and above all, God’s decree.

“On this historic day, I join the people of Kaduna state to celebrate this monumental victory for democracy.

A statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor,

Muhammad Lawal Shehu stated that “I consider this verdict not only as a win but a call to action, a call to deliver on our campaign promises as captured in the SUSTAIN agenda

“This victory is a testament to the strength of our great judicial institutions and a proud moment for me as one of the pioneer advocates for democratic governance in Nigeria decades ago.

“The Deputy Governor,  Dr Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe and I, express our immense gratitude to the good people of Kaduna State for their prayers, support and firm belief in our mandate.

“Indeed, your unshaken loyalty and confidence in our administration is the propellant to ensuring we continue to deliver on our promises to you.”

The Governor, while commending the tribunal judges for their diligence and steadfastness in handling the case, described their commitment to upholding truth, justice and the rule of law as exemplary.

Additionally, he thanked his legal team for their representation, and  praised the leadership and members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for their unflinching support from the beginning of the tribunal.

“Finally, in the spirit of togetherness, Governor Uba Sani has resolved to continue to encourage dialogue with all stakeholders irrespective of political divides.

“He also promised to maintain an open-door policy to well-meaning citizens to move our great state forward.