As the Supreme Court prepares to deliver its verdict on the Kano State governorship election, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, a well-known Islamic cleric, has penned a letter to Chief Justice of Nigeria, Kayode Ariwoola.
In the letter received by the CJN’s office on December 18, Sheikh Bauchi emphasized the importance of reviewing the Appeal Court’s decision that ousted Governor Abba Yusuf of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) with justice and fairness.
Kano, being the “commercial and religious center of the entire Northern Nigeria,” holds significant importance, warned the cleric. He stressed the need to preserve peace, unity, and order in the region, especially amid the economic challenges facing the world.
Sheikh Bauchi expressed concern that an unfavorable judgment could lead to violence, stating, “Nigeria cannot, at this moment, afford another civil war; which is mostly ignited from unattended agitations of the people.” He urged Chief Justice Ariwoola to ensure that the review process is conducted impartially, emphasizing the potential consequences of a perceived theft of the people’s votes.
In the letter, Sheikh Bauchi asserted that northern clerics, elders, and the populace would view the Supreme Court’s decision as a confirmation that Kano people’s votes were stolen if it upholds the Appeal Court’s verdict. He reiterated the importance of fairness and justice in the proceedings to prevent further discontent among the people.
The Court of Appeal in Abuja had previously removed Governor Abba Yusuf, supporting the decision of the election petition tribunal that nullified his election. Currently, the Supreme Court has reserved judgment in the NNPP’s appeal seeking affirmation of Abba Yusuf as the governor of Kano.
Sheikh Bauchi’s plea follows retired Justice Muhammad Dattijo’s critical remarks about the judiciary during his valedictory speech months ago. Justice Dattijo echoed public perceptions of the judiciary, expressing concerns about bribery allegations against court officials and judges, which have contributed to a negative view of the judicial system in the eyes of Nigerians.
