In a significant legal development, the Bauchi State governorship election petition tribunal has officially confirmed the victory of Governor Bala Mohammed in the keenly contested March 18th gubernatorial election in the state.
The tribunal’s decision, delivered today, dismissed the petition filed by the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its governorship candidate, the former Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar. The verdict culminated in a legal battle that had gripped the state’s political landscape for several months.
In delivering the judgment, the tribunal emphasized that there were no compelling reasons to nullify the election, as it had been conducted in strict compliance with electoral laws and regulations. The ruling effectively reaffirms Governor Bala Mohammed’s mandate as the elected leader of Bauchi State.
The election, which took place on March 18th, 2023, had been closely watched due to its significance in the political landscape of Bauchi State. Governor Bala Mohammed, who ran on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), had emerged as the winner, securing a second term in office.
The All Progressives Congress (APC), dissatisfied with the outcome, promptly filed a petition with the election tribunal, alleging irregularities and seeking the nullification of the election results. The party had also presented its governorship candidate, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, as a viable alternative.
Both parties presented their arguments and evidence before the judges throughout the tribunal proceedings. After carefully examining the evidence and legal arguments presented, the tribunal ultimately decided.
Governor Bala Mohammed’s supporters celebrated the tribunal’s ruling, expressing satisfaction that the judiciary had validated their leadership choice. On the other hand, the APC has yet to release an official statement in response to the verdict.