By Dosu Deborah Oluwatimilehin (SIWES student, Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic Eruwa)
The Supreme Court unanimously dismissed an appeal by Senator Aisha Dahiru Binani and the All Progressives Congress (APC) challenging Governor Umar Ahmadu Fintiri’s election victory in Adamawa state’s March 18 governorship election.
Justice John Inyang Okoro, writing for the Court, deemed Binani’s appeal meritless and lacking legal standing, thus dismissing it. Binani’s lawyer, Chief Akin Olujimi (SAN), invoked Section 152 of the Electoral Act 2022, arguing for Binani’s recognition as the lawfully elected Governor of Adamawa State based on the Resident Electoral Commissioner’s declaration.
However, Governor Fintiri’s counsel, Damian Dodo (SAN), countered that the Resident Electoral Commissioner’s actions were lawful, highlighting that only the Returning Officer could declare election results.
The Court ruled that the Resident Electoral Commissioner exceeded his powers by making the declaration, upholding Fintiri’s election. Governor Fintiri appreciated the Court’s decision, pledging to continue improving Adamawa State.
Meanwhile, Binani expressed disappointment, vowing to pursue justice through legal channels, asserting the people of Adamawa State deserve better governance.
