By love-89.com In light of the recent developments surrounding the local government elections in Kano State, we spoke with key figures about the implications of these events.
Justice Sanusi Ado Ma’Aji of a High Court in Kano has ruled that the Kano State Independent Electoral Commission (KANSIEC) is authorized to proceed with the local government elections scheduled for today. This decision comes amidst warnings from the All Progressives Congress (APC) directed at Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, urging him to avoid actions that could disrupt law and order in the state.
Justice Ma’Aji not only supported KANSIEC’s right to conduct the elections but also mandated that security agencies ensure the safety of voters who wish to participate. The court’s ruling, delivered in a case identified as K/676/2024, reinforced KANSIEC’s legal obligation to organize the elections and restricted the 19 registered political parties—of which APC was one, though many others were absent—from contesting this authority.
“The provisions of the Electoral Act clearly empower KANSIEC to conduct these elections,” Justice Ma’Aji stated. He referenced constitutional provisions, including Supreme Court decisions, affirming that any attempt to hinder KANSIEC in fulfilling its duties would lack legal standing.
Emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace, the Justice remarked, “This court, as the custodian of law and order, must issue orders that uphold the peace in this state. The Constitution grants KANSIEC the right to hold local government elections, and it has adequately prepared for today’s activities. Security agencies must protect the electorate to ensure a peaceful process.”
In a recent rally, Governor Yusuf asserted that no one could prevent KANSIEC from proceeding with the elections. Nonetheless, a Federal High Court had previously restricted the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from providing a voter register to KANSIEC and prohibited various security agencies from participating in the elections.
In response to the governor’s comments, Kano APC Chairman Abdullahi Abbas condemned his remarks as unbecoming for someone in his position as the state’s chief security officer. Abbas urged the government to comply with the Federal High Court’s directives, which include suspending KANSIEC’s operations following the dismissal of its leadership.
Abbas expressed concern over the governor encouraging their supporters to disregard the court’s orders, characterizing it as an invitation to chaos. “It is essential for the governor to respect the law. As citizens committed to Kano’s welfare, he must refrain from actions that could lead to unrest. Inciting lawlessness is not reflective of good leadership.”
Despite the conflicting legal landscape, a Kano State High Court has reiterated its support for KANSIEC, confirming its authority to oversee elections in all 44 local government areas. Justice Ma’Aji’s ruling emphasizing the inviolability of the electoral process suggests a critical moment for governance in Kano as both legal authority and political leadership face significant challenges.