By Ibrahim Muhammad
The Federal High Court sitting in Gusau Monday, nullified the All Progressives Congress, APC, primary election for Zamfara North Senatorial District that produced the serving Senator, Sahabi Ya’u, as the party’s candidate.
The court ruled that the process leading to the emergence of Senator Ya’u did not comply with the provisions of the Electoral Act and the APC Constitution.
The suit was filed by Dr. Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi, a chieftain of the APC in the state, who challenged the conduct and outcome of the primary election.
In its judgment delivered on Monday, the court upheld the arguments presented by Dr. Shinkafi’s legal team and voided the primary election.
Counsel to the plaintiff, Barr. Bello Galadi, while addressing journalists after the court sitting, described the judgment as a victory for democracy and the rule of law.
“This judgment has restored confidence in our judicial system. The court has made it clear that due process must be followed in the conduct of party primaries,” Galadi said.
He added that the nullification means the APC in Zamfara North must conduct a fresh primary election in accordance with the law.
Reacting to the judgment, Dr. Shinkafi commended the court for standing on the side of justice.
“I commend the judiciary for ensuring that justice prevailed. This is not about personalities, but about entrenching internal democracy within our party,” Shinkafi stated.
He said the decision would strengthen the APC in Zamfara North and give all aspirants a level playing field ahead of future elections.
With the nullification, Senator Sahabi Ya’u’s status as the APC candidate for Zamfara North Senatorial District has been set aside pending a fresh primary.
The development is expected to reshape political calculations in the district as the 2027 general elections draw closer.
