NNPP FOUNDER DECRIES APPELLATE COURT'S DECISION ON KANO GOVERNOR'S OUSTER

Boniface Aniebonam

Rald News Media reports that Dr. Boniface Aniebonam, the founder of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), expressed deep surprise at the recent Appeal Court judgment that nullified the election victory of Kano State governor, Abba Yusuf, calling it a "rude shock." Aniebonam asserted that only the NNPP and its members possess the authority to determine party affiliation, dismissing external interference from the judiciary.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Aniebonam emphasized, "It is only the NNPP and its members that can determine who is a member of the party." He highlighted the party's prerogative to admit members and grant waivers for election representation, arguing that challenges to NNPP membership should only be raised by those who contested the nomination.

Aniebonam contended that the NNPP has the right to sponsor candidates by providing waivers for election participation, and outsiders lack the authority to challenge a candidate's party membership. While expressing hope for justice at the Supreme Court, he encouraged NNPP members and Kano residents to maintain faith amid the ongoing legal challenges.

The Appeal Court's decision, which upheld an earlier ruling, invalidated Yusuf's victory, citing his alleged non-membership in the NNPP during the election. The court declared Nasiru Gawuna of the APC as the duly elected governor. Yusuf, who assumed office in May, now faces an uncertain future, with the NNPP expected to appeal the judgment at the Supreme Court.