The National and State House of Assembly Election Petitions Tribunal in Kano State has annulled the electoral victory of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) candidate for the Kura/Madobi/Garun Malam federal constituency, Yusuf Umar Datti.
Justice Ngozi Azinge, who presided over the case and delivered the verdict, cited Datti’s failure to resign from Bayero University, Kano, within 30 days before the election as the ground for the decision.
Justice Azinge stated that, “electoral rules and regulations are crucial in maintaining the integrity of our democratic process. Failure to adhere to these rules can have serious consequences.”
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was subsequently ordered to set aside the certificate of return that had previously been issued to Datti and declared Kwankwaso of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the rightful winner of the election.
Kwankwaso, who secured the second-highest number of votes during the election held on February 25, expressed gratitude and commitment to serving the people.
“I appreciate the judiciary for upholding the rule of law and ensuring that the will of the people prevails. I am ready to fulfil my responsibilities as the elected representative for the Kura/Madobi/Garun Malam constituency,” Kwankwaso stated.
