ISLAMIC CLERIC URGES CJN: ENSURE FAIRNESS IN KSNO GOVERNORSHIP VERDICT

Islamic Cleric Urges Chief Justice of Nigeria to Ensure Fairness in Kano Governorship Verdict

In anticipation of the Supreme Court's impending verdict on the Kano State governorship election, Sheikh Dahiru Bauch, a prominent Islamic cleric, has appealed to Chief Justice of Nigeria, Kayode Ariwoola, urging a review of the Appeal Court's decision to remove Governor Abba Yusuf from office.

Chief Justice of Nigeria, Kayode Ariwoola

In a letter received by the CJN's office on December 18, Sheikh Dahiru Bauch emphasized the significance of maintaining peace, unity, and order in Kano, describing it as the "commercial and religious center of the entire Northern Nigeria." The cleric warned that a judgment contrary to the will of the people could potentially lead to violence.

"Kano State has since been the commercial and religious center of the entire Northern Nigeria. It’s pertinent therefore, that peace, unity and order that have woven Nigeria together ever since the dark days of Nigerian civil wars should be maintained at all cost," Sheikh Bauchi stated.

Expressing concerns about potential unrest, Sheikh Bauch urged Chief Justice Ariwoola to ensure that the review of the Appeal Court's decision is conducted with utmost fairness and justice. He emphasized the need to uphold the expressed will of the people through their civic rights, preventing any perception that votes had been stolen.

"Your Lordship, this indeed is the unanimous opinion of the scholars and clerics as well as the concern of the northern elders; above all, the view of the northern populace and Nigerians at large," the cleric affirmed.

The Court of Appeal in Abuja had previously upheld the decision to nullify Governor Abba Yusuf's election, leading to the Supreme Court's current deliberation on the NNPP's appeal seeking affirmation of Yusuf as the governor of Kano. Sheikh Bauchi's letter adds to the ongoing discourse surrounding the public's perception of the judiciary, echoing concerns raised by retired Justice Muhammad Dattijo about the need for fairness and integrity within the legal system.