In a significant legal development, the Bauchi State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal has upheld the victory of Governor Bala Mohammed of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The tribunal’s verdict, delivered today, reaffirmed Governor Mohammed’s win, dismissing the petition filed by the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its governorship candidate, former Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar.
The tribunal, comprising a three-man panel led by Justice P.T Kwahar, issued its ruling after a meticulous review of the evidence and legal arguments presented by both parties. The decision hinges on the finding that there was no compelling reason to nullify the election, as it was conducted in strict compliance with the relevant electoral laws.
The contentious election, which captured the nation’s attention, saw Governor Bala Mohammed secure a resounding victory with 525,280 votes, as declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). He outpaced his closest rival, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who garnered 432,272 votes.
The outcome of the tribunal’s ruling reflects a reaffirmation of the mandate bestowed upon Governor Bala Mohammed by the people of Bauchi State during the election. It also signifies a resolution to the legal dispute that had lingered since the polls concluded.