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The Court of Appeal sitting in Sokoto has dismissed the appeal filed by Senator Sahabi Ya’u Kaura against the judgment of the Federal High Court, Gusau, over the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election for Zamfara North Senatorial District.
In its judgment, the appellate court upheld the decision of the Federal High Court which was in favour of APC senatorial aspirant, Dr. Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi, and affirmed the order for a fresh primary election in the senatorial district.
Speaking to journalists shortly after the judgment, counsel to the first respondent, Bello Galadi, said the Court of Appeal resolved all issues raised by the appellant and dismissed the appeal for lack of merit.
Galadi stated that Senator Sahabi Ya’u Kaura had challenged the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court to entertain the suit, but the Court of Appeal upheld the lower court’s jurisdiction to hear and determine the matter.
He added that the appellate court also dismissed the appellant’s argument that the lower court improperly shifted the burden of proof, noting that sufficient evidence was placed before the court to establish non-compliance with the APC’s guidelines for the conduct of primary elections.
Describing the judgment as a significant victory for democracy and the rule of law, counsel to Dr. Shinkafi said the ruling has demonstrated that no one is above the law, regardless of status or position.
“This judgment has vindicated my client’s decision to seek redress in court and sends a strong message that impunity has no place in our democratic process,” he said.
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