As the Supreme Court prepares to deliver its verdict on the 2023 Bauchi gubernatorial elections, Sabo Muhammad, a prominent member of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in the state, exudes confidence in the party’s candidate, Air Marshal Saddique Abubakar (retd). In an exclusive interview with Media Talk Africa, Muhammad, who also serves as the chairman of the Media and Publicity Committee of the party in the state, expressed unwavering belief in Abubakar’s imminent triumph despite previous setbacks at the tribunal and Court of Appeal.
The impending Supreme Court session will hear 21 appeals stemming from disputes over the March 18, 2023, governorship elections, setting the stage for a decisive moment in Bauchi’s political landscape.
Muhammad emphasized the party’s dedication to ensuring Abubakar reclaims his mandate, stating, “Our preoccupation now is to ensure that Air Marshal Sadiqiu Abubakar reclaims his mandate. That’s why some of us are rallying round to support the guber candidate in the best interest of the party so that the party can return to power.”
Asserting the validity of their case, Muhammad conveyed optimism about Abubakar’s victorious outcome, citing adherence to electoral laws and constitutional provisions. He emphasized the weighty evidence presented at the Supreme Court, expressing assurance in the justices delivering justice and restoring the allegedly stolen mandate of the people.
The gubernatorial dispute between Saddique Abubakar of the APC and the incumbent governor, Bala Mohammed of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), remains a focal point of contention. Abubakar and the APC challenge the recent Court of Appeal decision that upheld Mohammed’s election, alleging violations of the Electoral Act and advocating for a reversal of the ruling.
During the recent court hearing, senior counsel to the APC highlighted crucial oversight in the appellate court’s decision, emphasizing alleged non-compliance with the Electoral Act during the election process.
Conversely, Chris Uche, legal representative of Governor Mohammed, urged the Supreme Court to uphold the appellate court’s decision, bolstering the stance with arguments aligning with specific sections of the Electoral Act.
Now, with the stage set for the Supreme Court to deliver its verdict, the nation keenly awaits the outcome of this pivotal ruling that will undoubtedly shape the political trajectory of Bauchi State.