In a surprising move, a Federal High Court in Kano has sacked Prof. Sani Malumfashi, the Chairman of the Kano State Independent Electoral Commission (KANSIEC), just four days before the local government elections.
The court’s decision has sent shockwaves through the political landscape of Kano State.
Justice S.A. Amobede delivered the ruling on October 22, 2024, stating that Prof. Malumfashi was a card-carrying member of the ruling New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).
This membership directly violates the constitutional provisions regarding the independence of electoral bodies in Nigeria.
The case was initiated by Aminu Tiga and the All Progressives Congress (APC), who argued that the electoral commission’s leadership was compromised due to their political affiliations.
The defendants included the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Haruna Dederi, along with 14 other officials.
Justice Amobede’s ruling emphasized that Kabir Zakirai, the Secretary of the commission, also did not meet the necessary qualifications to hold his position.
According to the judge, Zakirai was not a civil servant and, therefore, was not eligible for appointment under the Kano State Independent Electoral Commission Law of 2001.
The judgment read, “Whatever the eighth defendant is doing in preparation for the 2024 Local Government Election in Kano State, such as the issuance of election guidelines, circulars, screening of candidates, and sale of nomination forms, are null and void.”
The court ordered the immediate disqualification and removal of Malumfashi and other members of the commission from their positions.
They are now barred from conducting any further activities related to the upcoming local government elections in the 44 local governments of Kano State.
Justice Amobede further directed police and security agencies to ensure compliance with the ruling.
This decision raises significant concerns about the electoral process in Kano State, as it leaves the commission without leadership just days before the elections.
Aminu Tiga expressed relief at the court’s decision, stating, “This ruling is a victory for democracy in Kano State. We cannot allow partisanship to undermine our electoral processes.”
The ruling underscores the ongoing challenges faced by electoral bodies in Nigeria, where allegations of bias and partisanship frequently arise.
The sacking of KANSIEC officials also points to a broader need for reforms in Nigeria’s electoral management system.
Political analysts are watching closely to see how this ruling will impact the local government elections scheduled for October 26, 2024.
With the electoral commission in disarray, many are questioning whether the elections can proceed as planned.
The Federal High Court has set a critical precedent, reinforcing the importance of neutrality within electoral bodies.
The Constitution of Nigeria mandates that electoral officials must remain apolitical to ensure fair and free elections.
This ruling could set a new standard for how electoral commissions are staffed and managed in the future.
Local government elections in Nigeria have often been marred by controversies, including accusations of rigging and bias.
As the date approaches, political parties are gearing up for what could be a tense and contentious election.
In light of the court’s ruling, political stakeholders are now calling for urgent measures to ensure a smooth electoral process.
There are concerns that the vacuum created by the removal of KANSIEC officials could lead to confusion and chaos on election day.
