Northern CSOs Draw Tinubu, Supreme Court's Attention on Election Cases in Kano, Zamfara, Plateau

Mr. Waiya (center) and other officials of the Northern CSOs at the National press conference held in Kano

By Salisu K Ismail, Kano

The Conference of Northern States Civil Society Networks has advised President Bola Tinubu to maintain a neutral stance in the ongoing election cases of Kano, Zamfara, and Plateau states that are currently before the Supreme Court. 

The appeal court judgments, which resulted in the removal of Gov. Abba Yusuf of Kano and Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang of Plateau states, as well as the order for a rerun in Zamfara State, have sparked widespread outrage. 

The group's chairman, Ibrahim Waiya, while speaking at a National press conference in Kano, Saturday, warned that any attempt to manipulate the Supreme Court judgment would jeopardize the nation's democracy. 

Furthermore, he urged the National Judicial Council (NJC) to adhere to the ethics and practices of their profession in accordance with the law, as they serve as the custodians of justice and the rule of law. 

Mr. Waiya stated that, "This inconsistency in judgments from various courts of the same jurisdiction has created confusion and frustration among the citizens."

”Unfortunately, this has led to a loss of trust and confidence in the judiciary.

Adding that, "The preservation of the integrity and efficacy of our legal system is imperative in maintaining public trust and upholding the principles of the rule of law."

"We firmly believe that the Judicial Service Commission bears the responsibility and possesses the authority to implement the necessary reforms required to restore confidence in the judiciary."

"The alarming deterioration in the security of Nigerian citizens' lives and property instills heightened fear, hopelessness, and uncertainty."

"We acknowledge and commend the unwavering determination of the governors of Sokoto, Borno, Kaduna, Zamfara, and Katsina in their efforts to combat the insecurities within their respective states."

"The chairman urges the Federal Government to prioritize the allocation of attention to the security agencies to facilitate the establishment of peace and progress."

However, as stated by Mr. Waiya, "The continuously escalating incidents of violence, child trafficking, banditry, displacement of communities, and kidnappings throughout the country, particularly in the northern states, are unparalleled in their severity."