As part of Nigeria’s 63rd independence celebration, Nigerians residing in the Diaspora have gathered at the High Commission in London to demand fairness in the ongoing Kano State governorship election trial.
Displaying placards, these Nigerians voiced their concerns over the alleged interference of the All Progressives Congress (APC), led by Abdullahi Ganduje, in the election petition.
Their objective was to advocate for an impartial and apolitical justice system that would uphold fairness for the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP) government in Kano. With their presence at the Nigerian embassy in London yesterday, they sought justice from the APC-led Federal Government.
Dr. Aminu Bello, the protest’s convener, addressed journalists during the event, highlighting their purpose for gathering at the embassy. Their protest aimed to challenge the recent judgment delivered by the Kano State Election Tribunal on the 2023 election, as it raised serious concerns regarding its fairness and led to a call for justice.
He emphasized that the 2023 elections held significant importance in Nigeria’s history, as it was a moment when citizens from diverse backgrounds exercised their democratic rights and chose their leaders. However, the recent developments in Kano have cast doubts on the adherence to these fundamental democratic principles.
Bello stressed a crucial point, stating that only the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) possesses the legal authority to nullify votes, not tribunal judges. He affirmed that the judiciary’s role is to interpret the law and ensure justice prevails, rather than alter the will of the people expressed through the ballot box.
“We firmly believe in the importance of blind justice and the rule of law prevailing in all circumstances. The recent judgment has raised concerns about whether justice has genuinely been served in this particular instance. We call upon all Nigerians, irrespective of their political affiliations, to unite and fight for justice,” he passionately pleaded.
Bello acknowledged that democracy thrives on the diversity of political voices and the competition of ideas. He asserted that Nigeria should never be reduced to a one-party state, as the strength of democracy lies in a vibrant multi-party system that provides all citizens with an equal opportunity to express their choices and aspirations.
