Tensions grip several states across the nation as the Supreme Court prepares to render final judgments on contested governorship elections. In March 2023, polls were held in 28 states, leading to legal challenges in key battlegrounds such as Kano, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Delta, Bauchi, and Plateau. The All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) are at the forefront of these legal battles.
In Nasarawa State, the PDP expresses optimism for a favorable verdict if the Supreme Court focuses on the case’s merits. Additional security personnel have been deployed to potential flashpoints, including Nasarawa Eggon, Akwanga, Lafia, and Karu. Delta State faces uncertainty, with PDP supporters anxious about the interpretation of Section 137 of the constitution, fearing covert support for a former Deputy Senate President by a PDP leader.
A PDP chieftain dismisses APC hopes, citing previous Supreme Court rulings and arguing that Section 137 demands oral evidence to prove non-compliance, a requirement allegedly unmet by the APC.
Plateau State witnesses heightened insecurity, prompting the deployment of security personnel in Jos and other areas. Residents, while satisfied with the security measures, express concerns that the Supreme Court’s verdict might escalate the state’s instability.
In Kano, a volatile state, supporters of the APC are apprehensive about the pending Supreme Court judgment, keeping their strategies discreet. Security personnel have been lightly deployed, with an expected increase closer to the judgment date.
Kaduna experiences increased security measures following favorable tribunal and Appeal Court judgments for the APC and Governor Uba Sani. Some opposition party women supporters hint at defection to the APC pending the Supreme Court ruling, expressing confidence in Governor Sani’s victory.
APC remains confident, expressing hope for the best outcomes, while the PDP expects justice from the Supreme Court in the ongoing governorship appeal cases. The looming verdicts raise the stakes, with the nation watching closely for the final decisions that could reshape the political landscape in these crucial states.
