The Abuja Division of the Appeal Court has upheld the victory of Governor Bala Mohammed in the Bauchi State governorship election held on March 18. The appeal, filed by Sadique Abubakar, the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, contested the tribunal's decision affirming Mohammed's win. The three-justice panel unanimously ruled in favor of Mohammed, with no costs awarded, stating that each party should bear its expenses.
Justice Chidi Nwaoma Uwa, the presiding judge, delivered the judgment, addressing Abubakar's pleas. The appellant's first plea, seeking nullification due to improperly filled election forms, was dismissed as the court found insufficient evidence and failure to identify affected polling units. The court commended the tribunal's scrutiny of evidence and noted that witnesses failed to prove their understanding of the forms.
Regarding claims of massive non-compliance with electoral laws, the court ruled the appellant failed to substantiate the allegations, citing testimony from witnesses who did not vote on election day. On the alleged unprofessional conduct of INEC officials, the court aligned with the tribunal, stating it was not part of the initial plea. The court also rejected the appellant's plea about fraudulent cancellations and alterations, emphasizing the failure to provide genuine evidence to support the claims.
