The Kano State government has issued a warning regarding an alleged conspiracy to bribe members of the National/State Assembly Election Petitions Tribunal within the state. The government has directed its suspicions towards a prominent figure within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), who is currently facing serious corruption allegations.
According to a statement released by Baba Halilu Dantiye, the State’s Commissioner of Information, late on Wednesday, the State government became aware of an accusation made by Hon. Justice Flora Ngozi Azinge, the chairperson of the Tribunal. The allegation pertained to an attempt to bribe a member of the panel of Justices with monetary incentives, presumably to influence a favorable verdict for a specific candidate.
The Kano State government expressed deep concern about these allegations, particularly due to widespread rumors suggesting the involvement of influential figures within the APC. These individuals are believed to be seeking to replicate alleged actions taken during the 2019 elections, employing any means necessary to manipulate the course of justice.
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“It is no secret that these influential figures, known for their questionable ethical conduct, are relentlessly striving to undermine the rightful mandate bestowed by the people of Kano state,” Dantiye remarked.
Furthermore, the Commissioner highlighted an influential member of the APC who, as the party’s chairman, is purportedly exerting efforts to influence the outcomes of various Election Petition Tribunals in Kano and beyond.
The Kano State government perceives this situation as a critical test for the current administration’s commitment to combating corruption and upholding democratic values. The government demands a thorough investigation into the matter, including the prosecution of any individuals found culpable. Given that these allegations were publicly made by a respected Judge during court proceedings, the involvement of anti-corruption agencies is expected and imperative.
The government praised the principled stance of Tribunal chairperson Hon. Justice Flora Ngozi Azinge, viewing it as a positive example of integrity within the Nigerian judiciary. This action reaffirms the existence of Judges and Justices who hold themselves to high ethical standards.
In addition, the government expressed gratitude to the Kano residents who voted the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) into power, amassing over one million votes despite lacking federal, state, local government, and financial support. This display of public support highlights the readiness of the people of Kano to safeguard their democratic mandate through any means available.
In conclusion, Dantiye emphasized the government’s commitment to investigating this matter thoroughly, preserving the principles of democracy, and ensuring that those responsible for any wrongdoing face appropriate consequences.
