- Alhassan Ado Doguwa triumphs in the election petition tribunal as his reelection is upheld for the Kano State representative seat
- The tribunal finds the petitioner’s claims unsubstantiated, citing the lack of evidence to annul Alhassan Ado Doguwa’s election
Alhassan Ado Doguwa, a former Majority Leader in the House of Representatives, has emerged victorious in the election petition tribunal against him, brought forth by Salisu Yushau Abdullahi of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP). The tribunal, situated in Kano, has upheld Doguwa’s reelection as the representative for the Doguwa and Tudunwada Federal Constituency of Kano State.
Abdullahi’s petition sought to nullify Doguwa’s reelection as a representative. However, after due deliberation, the three-member panel led by Justice L.B. Owolabi concluded that the petitioner failed to substantiate his claims beyond a reasonable doubt.
Justice Owolabi clarified that all three key grounds presented by the petitioner—alleged corrupt practices by Doguwa, non-compliance with electoral laws, and an inability to secure lawful votes—lacked a solid foundation and could not serve as valid reasons for annulling the election.
Regarding the allegation of violence during the election, the petitioner’s 21 witnesses provided conflicting testimonies, asserting that no violence had occurred during the voting process.
In a unanimous decision, the court determined that the witnesses called by the petitioner had not provided compelling evidence to challenge the election.
Justice Owolabi summarized the ruling by stating, “The petitioner has failed to establish a case that would warrant the annulment of Alhassan Ado Doguwa’s election. Therefore, he is declared duly elected by a majority vote.” Alhassan Ado Doguwa, in light of this verdict, will continue to represent the Doguwa and Tudunwada Federal Constituency in Kano.