Northern Group Begs Apex Court to Resolve Zamfara Appeal in Matawalle's Favor

Danmani Shamsudeen 

The recent governorship election in Zamfara State has been marred by controversy surrounding the non-counting of approximately 90,000 ballots by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). 

The Northern Emancipation Network (NEN) has called upon Nigeria's Supreme Court to intervene and resolve this issue in favor of former Governor Bello Mohammed Matawalle,  arguing that the use of the Biometric Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) introduced by INEC does not carry the same weight as the Electoral Act, and its mandatory use is questionable.

A statement by the NEN's Chairman,  Suleiman Abbah pointed out that Section 60 of the Electoral Act clearly states that the presiding officer must record the votes scored by each candidate in a form prescribed by the commission. Additionally, section 60 (5) of the Act mandates the presiding officer to transfer the results, including the total number of accredited voters and the ballot results, in a manner prescribed by the commission.

 The NEN argues that the prescribed manner, which is the BVAS, does not hold the same legal weight as the Electoral Act itself."The BVAS was introduced by INEC to enhance the credibility of the electoral process. However, it is important to note that the BVAS is not explicitly mandated by the Electoral Act. 

Therefore, its use cannot be made mandatory without proper legal backing," Abbah said. The NEN's appeal to the Supreme Court is based on the argument that the BVAS should not supersede the provisions of the Electoral Act, which is the primary legal framework governing elections in Nigeria.

"The Supreme Court's intervention is crucial in this matter to ensure that the principles of fairness, justice, and the rule of law are upheld. The non-counting of 90,000 ballots raises concerns about the integrity of the electoral process and the disenfranchisement of a significant number of voters.

 "The Supreme Court, as the highest judicial authority in Nigeria, has the responsibility to address this appeal and provide a resolution that upholds the democratic principles upon which the nation is built," he said. Furthermore, NEN said, the Supreme Court's intervention will help to restore public confidence in the electoral process. 

"The credibility of elections is essential for the stability and progress of any democratic society. By resolving this appeal, the Supreme Court can send a strong message that it is committed to ensuring free and fair elections, and that any violations or irregularities will not be tolerated," Abbah said.