Appeal Court Overturns Kano LG Election Judgment
The Court of Appeal in Abuja has reversed a Federal High Court ruling. The FHC had annulled the Kano State Independent Electoral Commission (KASIEC) and the local government election held on October 26, 2024. This ruling restores the election’s validity and confirms KASIEC’s authority.
Court of Appeal’s Ruling Details
A panel of three judges, led by Justice Biobele Georgewill, ruled unanimously. They said the Federal High Court lacked jurisdiction over cases about the structure of state electoral bodies. They added that the Kano State High Court is the proper court to hear such cases.
The Court of Appeal allowed three appeals filed by the Kano State Attorney General, the Kano State House of Assembly, and KASIEC. The cases heard by the Federal High Court were dismissed because it lacked jurisdiction.
Effect on Kano Local Government Election
The Federal High Court had voided the local government election conducted by KASIEC in October 2024. The Court of Appeal’s ruling reversed this decision. This confirms that the election results are valid.
The ruling also supports KASIEC as the proper commission to organize the elections. This restores trust in the election process in Kano State.
Candidate List Rejection Also Reversed
In another ruling, the Court of Appeal overturned the Federal High Court’s rejection of a candidate list. The list was submitted by the Musa Kwakwanso faction of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP). This candidate list was for the recent local government election.
The court ruled that issues about party leadership and candidate nomination are not for the courts to decide. These matters fall outside judicial review.
Jurisdiction and Political Implications
The Court of Appeal made it clear that only the Kano State High Court can hear cases about state electoral bodies. This prevents confusion about which court handles such matters.
By overturning the lower court’s rulings, the Court of Appeal reinforces the proper legal procedures for election disputes. This decision may influence how similar cases are handled in other states.
What This Means for Kano Residents
Residents of Kano can now trust that their local government elections are valid. Elected officials hold legitimate office under the law.
The ruling encourages politicians to use the right courts for election matters. It also supports the independence of state electoral commissions like KASIEC.
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