Supreme Court Tension: Dahiru Bauchi Issues Dire Warning Over Kano Governor’s Fate

In a startling revelation, prominent Northern cleric Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi has issued a dire warning to Chief Justice of Nigeria, Kayode Ariwoola, urging caution in potentially removing Governor Abba Yusuf from office. This caution comes ahead of the Supreme Court’s impending verdict on the Kano State governorship election. In a letter to Mr. Ariwoola stamped “received” on December 18, and widely circulated on social media, Bauchi emphasized the significance of Kano as the commercial and religious center of Northern Nigeria. He stressed that a judgment against the popular will might lead to unrest and potentially escalate into violence.

Describing Kano’s historical importance, Bauchi underscored the need to maintain peace, unity, and order, especially in these times of economic turbulence. He voiced concerns that the populace, along with clerics and elders, would perceive a Supreme Court affirmation of the Appeal Court’s decision to sack Governor Abba Yusuf as the theft of their votes. Bauchi passionately urged the Chief Justice to ensure that the review proceedings are conducted with absolute fairness and justice, without bias or favoritism, to prevent citizens from feeling disenfranchised.

Bauchi’s letter highlighted the unanimous opinion of scholars, clerics, and northern elders, echoing the sentiments of the populace. The Court of Appeal in Abuja had previously upheld the decision of the election petition tribunal, nullifying Governor Yusuf’s election. As the Supreme Court reserved judgment in the appeal filed by the NNPP seeking affirmation of Abba Yusuf’s candidacy, Bauchi’s letter adds a significant layer of concern amid existing criticisms of the judiciary.