By Sabiu Abdullahi
The eagerly awaited judgement in the Kano State governorship election dispute has been set for Friday, January 12, 2024, according to an announcement from the Supreme Court.
The case involves Governor Abba Yusuf of the New Nigeria Peoples Party and the All Progressives Congress candidate, Dr. Nasiru Gawuna.
A notice issued to all concerned parties outlines the court’s directive that each side can bring no more than two legal representatives during the judgement proceedings.
This decision comes after a five-member panel, led by Justice John Inyang Okoro, listened to arguments in late December last year and subsequently reserved judgment.
The appellate court had previously upheld the tribunal’s decision, which removed Governor Abba Yusuf and declared Dr. Nasiru Gawuna as the rightful winner.
However, disputes arose among NNPP supporters, particularly concerning alleged conflicting judgements delivered by the appellate court.
While NNPP supporters contested the ruling, pointing to discrepancies in the judgements, APC supporters celebrated the verdict in favour of their candidate.
The tense situation in the state prompted the Kano State Police Commissioner, Gumel, to impose a ban on protests and rallies.
Despite efforts to ease tensions through a peace accord signed by the leadership of both parties, incidents of violence have been reported, underscoring the heightened anxiety surrounding the election dispute.