Tambuwal Cautions INEC Chairman Against Political Influence, Backs Manir Dan’iya’s Governorship Candidacy
Fahad Faruk Galadanchi
Former Sokoto State Governor and Senator representing Sokoto South, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has urged the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, to avoid being influenced by what he described as “bad advice” from political actors and to remain guided by the rule of law in the discharge of his duties.
Tambuwal said the INEC chairman had previously misinterpreted the legal principle of status quo ante bellum, an error he noted was later corrected by the Supreme Court. He also alleged that an election timetable issued by the commission was inconsistent with provisions of the Electoral Act, adding that a Federal High Court in Abuja subsequently declared the timetable unlawful.
According to the senator, it is regrettable that the head of the electoral body, despite being a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and a Professor of Law, has been associated with actions that courts have found to be inconsistent with the law.
“This is the first time since Nigeria’s return to democracy that a Professor of Law and legal practitioner is heading INEC. Nigeria is greater than any political party or individual, and the country’s democratic institutions must be protected through strict adherence to the law” he said.
Tambuwal therefore called on the INEC chairman and his subordinates to carry out their responsibilities with professionalism, fairness and respect for the law.
The former governor made the remarks during an affirmation ceremony of the ADC Governorship Candidate in Sokoto, Hon. Munir Muhammad Dan’iya, who was also a former deputy governor of Sokoto State,
Tambuwal described Dan’iya’s emergence as “God’s choice” and urged all aspirants who contested for the party’s governorship ticket and other elective positions to support those who emerged victorious for the overall progress and unity of the ADC.
He also commended the party for giving more opportunities to young people in its candidate selection process, saying it would encourage greater youth participation in politics.
The Senator further advised ADC supporters to conduct a clean, issue based and peaceful campaign ahead of the elections.
