Hands off Kano election, let justice run its course – Yoruba elders to Tinubu

The Yoruba community in Kano State has issued a strong warning to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to “not interfere with the decision of the Supreme Court” regarding the disputed Kano State gubernatorial election.

This was disclosed in a communique issued after a meeting in Kaduna, comes amidst growing anticipation for the Supreme Court’s verdict on the appeal filed by the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) candidate, Abba Kabir Yusuf.

The elders, led by APC stalwart Seyi Olorunsola, expressed concern that “sentiments and emotions” could sway the President’s judgment and lead him to intervene in the case, potentially jeopardizing the will of Kano State voters.

They emphasized their “appeal for him not to interfere” and instead allow the judicial process to unfold fairly.

“The decisions of the courts must be respected,” the elders stated, highlighting the importance of upholding the rule of law and fostering peaceful coexistence in the region.

Furthermore, the communique specifically urges prominent Yoruba traditional leaders, including the Ooni of Ife, the Alaafin of Oyo, and the Oba of Lagos, to “engage with our son, President Bola Tinubu” and reinforce the message of non-interference.

Additionally, they mention respected former APC Chairman, Chief Bisi Akande, as another key figure who can influence the President’s stance.

The statement read, “The purpose of the meeting was to deliberate on the unfolding situation in Kano State, where the Electoral Tribunal and the Appeal Court have confirmed the victory of Dr. Nasir Gawuna, the APC candidate, in the March 18, 2023, gubernatorial elections.

“The impending Supreme Court judgment, following the appeal by the NNPP Candidate, Engr. Kabir Abba Yusuf prompted the elders to issue resolutions.

“The Yoruba Northern Elders Forum acknowledges the influential role of traditional leaders in our society. In light of this, we urge foremost Yoruba Traditional Leaders, such as the Ooni of Ife, the Alaafin of Oyo, and the Oba of Lagos, and other leaders of thought, such as the respected former APC Chairman, Chief Bisi Akande, to engage with our son, President Bola Tinubu.

“Our appeal is for him not to interfere with the decision of the Supreme Court but to allow the wheel of justice to prevail in the case of the Kano State gubernatorial election.

“We insist that the decisions of the courts must be respected, fostering a peaceful coexistence among the diverse communities in the region.

“We caution President Bola Ahmed Tinubu against succumbing to sentiments and emotions that may compromise the will of the people of Kano State.

“It is imperative that he does not play into the hands of propaganda orchestrated by the NNPP, especially since the Tribunal overturned its perceived victory, a decision validated by the Appeal Court.”