The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State has strongly criticized the local government elections held on Saturday by the Kano State Independent Electoral Commission (KANSIEC), describing them as unlawful. The APC's stance is based on a previous court ruling.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), APC leader Rabi’u Bichi highlighted that a ruling from the Federal High Court in Kano, delivered by Justice Simon Amobede, remains in force. According to Bichi, the court found that KANSIEC's leadership showed bias in favor of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), the ruling party in the state, thus undermining the neutrality of the commission.
Bichi emphasized that the APC considers the election null and void due to the unresolved court order. "Justice Simon Amobede of the Federal High Court, Kano, ruled that the leadership of KANSIEC was biased and partial toward the ruling NNPP. Since this judgment has not been challenged, the APC sees the election outcome as illegal," Bichi stated.
He also referred to a recent decision by the Federal High Court, which disqualified all NNPP candidates running for chairmanship positions in the local government elections, further reinforcing the APC's claim that the election is invalid. Bichi urged APC supporters to remain patient while the party explores legal options to challenge the election.
On the other hand, KANSIEC Chairman Prof. Sani Malumfashi defended the commission’s actions, asserting that KANSIEC is operating within the law and following proper procedures. Malumfashi reiterated that the commission is non-partisan and has directed its staff and volunteers to remain vigilant against corruption, ensure age requirements are met, and reject any attempts at vote-buying or election-related violence.
He also pointed out that a recent ruling from the Kano High Court, delivered by Justice Sanusi Ado Maaji, upheld KANSIEC's authority to proceed with the elections. According to Malumfashi, the court’s decision confirmed that KANSIEC had the legal jurisdiction to conduct the polls as scheduled.
This situation leaves both parties locked in a legal battle, with the APC questioning the validity of the election and KANSIEC standing by its authority to hold the vote.