Kano State, Nigeria –
The Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf who was elected with a mandate in the elections held on March 18, 2023, has announced his intent to appeal the recent decision by the governorship election petition tribunal.
Addressing the people of Kano State in a statement released, on Wednesday, September 20, 2023, the Governor expressed his determination to pursue legal remedies to ensure that justice prevails.
Governor Yusuf addressing the citizens, recounted the significant mandate he received during the elections, where he secured a total of 1,019,602 votes, securing a convincing margin of 128,897 votes over the second-place contender. Following this victory, he was duly sworn in as the Governor of Kano State on May 29, 2023.
The election, however, did not go without challenges, as the opposing party contested the results and initiated legal proceedings. After nearly six months of hearings and deliberations, the tribunal judges issued their ruling, which the Governor acknowledged as an exercise of human judgment prone to imperfections and potential legal misapplications.
Governor Yusuf reassured the citizens that the legal battle was far from over, invoking the constitutional provisions that allow for appeals to higher courts, such as the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court. He revealed that his legal team had been instructed to promptly file an appeal, reaffirming his commitment to ensuring that justice is served.
In his address, he called upon the people of Kano State to remain calm and uphold the rule of law. He urged citizens not to take matters into their own hands, emphasizing that security agencies had been directed to maintain law and order and protect the lives and property of innocent residents across the State.
Governor Yusuf expressed unwavering determination, assuring the citizens that this setback would not deter the progress and development of Kano State.
As Kano State awaits further legal proceedings, the people brace themselves for a continued legal battle, while the Governor remains resolute in his commitment to serve the state diligently and honor the mandate entrusted to him by the people.