The Zamfara State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal, currently convened in Sokoto, is poised to announce its judgment concerning the petition submitted by the former Zamfara State governor, Bello Matawalle. Matawalle's petition contests the legitimacy of the election that saw Dauda Lawal assume the position of governor in the state.
This judgment, previously scheduled for Monday, September 18, 2023, comes in the wake of Matawalle's accusations against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of undermining his election victory. He claimed that INEC failed to include the results from certain ward areas, which, if considered, would secure his victory with a significant margin.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Zamfara State has expressed confidence in a favorable outcome at the tribunal. Yusuf Idris, the APC spokesperson in Zamfara State, asserted that the party has presented substantial evidence to the court. The APC is optimistic about reclaiming what they deem their 'stolen mandate.'
Idris stated that Matawalle was allegedly thwarted by certain forces at the national level, purportedly due to his involvement in opposing the design of new naira notes and his support for the then-presidential candidate of the party, Bola Tinubu. He expressed hope that justice would prevail, and the APC would secure victory.
He also urged party members and supporters to maintain composure and abide by the law throughout the legal proceedings.
Mouktar Lugga, the acting Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Zamfara State, exuded confidence in the tribunal's judgment. He believed that the tribunal would uphold justice and ensure the people's voice is heard.
Lugga called on the people of the state to exercise patience and refrain from any unlawful actions, emphasizing the PDP's commitment to peaceful proceedings. He urged them not to take the law into their own hands and trust that justice would prevail."
