Zamfara North APC Ticket Nullified As Court Orders Fresh Primary

A Federal High Court in Gusau has struck down the All Progressives Congress senatorial primary for Zamfara North, mandating a fresh exercise within fourteen days following a legal challenge by aspirant Dr. Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi over the initial nomination of Senator Sahabi Alhaji Ya’u.

Presiding via a virtual ruling, Justice Hassan Dikko voided the May 19 contest after establishing clear breaches of the Electoral Act, party guidelines, and constitutional provisions, alongside evidence of overvoting. 

The verdict resets the path for the district ahead of the upcoming general elections.

Plaintiff counsel Bello Idris Galadi praised the outcome as a triumph for internal party democracy and electoral integrity. 

Meanwhile, defense counsel Musbahu Salawudeen acknowledged the ruling as a crucial second chance that shields the ruling party from potential exclusion, noting that the legal team will review the judgment before deciding on a possible appeal.

Dr. Shinkafi has urged the national secretariat to supervise a transparent rerun that strictly adheres to established electoral laws.