The Bauchi State High Court No. 2 has dismissed Suit No. BA/181/2026 filed by Barr. Idrees Gambo against the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Shehu Buba, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and awarded a total of N8 million in costs against the claimant.
Delivering the ruling on Thursday, Justice Kunaza Hamidu held that the application before the court could not be sustained in view of the procedural developments in the matter. The court subsequently dismissed the suit and imposed costs of N1 million each in favour of the first and second defendants, bringing the total award to N2 million.
The claimant, through counsel Ahmed Adam, had earlier approached the court alleging exclusion from the PRP governorship primaries and sought judicial intervention over what he described as irregularities in the party’s nomination process. However, during proceedings, the claimant’s counsel indicated an intention to discontinue the suit.
Counsel to the PRP, Muhammad Maidoki, opposed the discontinuance, arguing that substantial steps had already been taken in the matter and that issues had been properly joined before the court. He urged the court to dismiss the case outright rather than allow withdrawal at that stage.
Following arguments from both sides, the court upheld the position of the defendants, dismissed the suit, and awarded costs as stated.
Reacting after the judgment, Jibrin Jibrin, counsel to Sen. Shehu Buba, welcomed the ruling, describing it as a relief that restores clarity to the political process and removes uncertainties that had surrounded the litigation. He added that the decision allows political activities and preparations to continue without disruption. Jibrin also commended the judiciary for what he termed a firm and timely intervention, while urging restraint in public commentary on ongoing court matters.
The PRP State Chairman, Abdulrahman Muazu, also expressed satisfaction with the ruling, appreciating the court and urging party members to remain calm and united following the decision.
