The All Progressives Congress (APC) has issued a stern warning to the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) government in Kano State, cautioning against any attempts to discredit Justice Flora Azinge, Chairperson of the National and State Assembly Election Petitions Tribunal. The warning comes in response to allegations of a N10 million bribery attempt made to her legal team.
A statement released by Malam Muhammad Garba, the Spokesperson for the Gawuna-Gari Campaign Council, emphasized the need for respect and fairness towards Justice Azinge. This comes amidst concerns that certain lawyers were trying to influence judges within her team through bribery.
Kano State Government, echoing these concerns, has called on security agencies to thoroughly investigate the matter and bring those responsible for the alleged corrupt behavior to justice. The government perceives this incident as a pivotal test for the present administration’s commitment to upholding the integrity of the legal process.
Baba Halilu Dantiye, the State Commissioner for Information, underlined the importance of swift action by anti-corruption agencies, especially given that the serious allegation was openly made by a respected Judge.
In response, Garba, who served as the former commissioner for Information and Chief of Staff to the APC National Chairman, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, accused the Kano State Government of attempting to tarnish both the image of the APC and the integrity of the court. He insinuated that the government might be trying to preemptively discredit the tribunal due to fears of an unfavorable judgment.
Garba emphasized the APC’s commitment to a fair legal process, citing that the party had presented all its witnesses during the tribunal proceedings, unlike the NNPP government which failed to do so.
Amidst the political maneuvering, the APC remains steadfast in seeking legal resolution to the case, expressing confidence that justice will ultimately be served and their mandate reclaimed in Kano.