Six Governors Secure Victories as Appeal Court Upholds Electoral Wins

Six governors emerged victorious in the second judicial challenge to their electoral successes, as the Court of Appeal, across various divisions, affirmed their wins. The governors include Nasir Idris (Kebbi), Uba Sani (Kaduna), Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), Fran­cis Ogbonna Nwifuru (Ebonyi), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), and Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta).

In Kebbi, the Court of Appeal in Abuja upheld Governor Nasir Idris’ electoral triumph, dismissing the appeal brought by the PDP and its candidate, Aminu Bande. The court ruled that the allegations, including forgery against Deputy Governor Abubakar Tafida, were unsubstantiated. Additionally, issues of non-compliance with the Electoral Act lacked substantial impact on the election outcome.

Background: The election dispute arose after INEC initially declared the Kebbi State governorship election inconclusive, leading to a supplementary election won by Governor Idris.

In Kaduna, the Court of Appeal in Abuja upheld Governor Uba Sani’s victory, dismissing the PDP’s appeal challenging the election outcome. The court declared the petition abandoned, citing a breach of electoral procedures and invalid statements by witnesses. The court also voided an order for a supplementary poll in four LGAs.

Note: The PDP and its candidate, Mohammed Ashiru, contested the governorship election result, but the appellate court affirmed the Kaduna State Election Petition Tribunal’s decision.

In Akwa Ibom, the Court of Appeal in Lagos dismissed three separate appeals challenging Governor Umo Eno’s victory. The appellants, representing different parties, alleged that the governor was not qualified due to forged academic certificates. The court, however, deemed all three appeals lacking in merit.

Conclusion: The unanimous judgments by the Court of Appeal affirm the electoral successes of Governors Nasir Idris, Uba Sani, and Umo Eno, providing legal clarity and stability to their leadership.