A Federal High Court in Gusau has nullified the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election held for the Zamfara North Senatorial District and directed the party to organise a fresh exercise within 14 days. Justice Hassan Dikko delivered the ruling on Monday, August 31, after considering written addresses and arguments adopted by lawyers on both sides of the case.
Court Nullifies APC Primary for Zamfara North
The nullified primary had produced incumbent Senator Sahabi Ya'u Kaura as the APC's flagbearer for the Zamfara North senatorial seat ahead of the 2027 general elections. The ruling followed approximately two hours of proceedings, during which the court examined the submissions made by the plaintiffs and defendants.
The suit was brought before the court by APC senatorial aspirant Dr Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi, who contested the validity of how the primary was conducted. His legal action directly led to Monday's ruling ordering the party back to the drawing board.
Shinkafi Hails Judgment, APC to Conduct Fresh Primary
Responding to the judgment, Shinkafi said the court's decision had renewed public trust in the justice system. "It had restored people's confidence in the judiciary," he said.
The APC now has 14 days from the date of the judgment to conduct a new primary election for the district. This directive is binding and sets a clear timeline for the party to resolve the internal dispute over its candidate for the senatorial seat. The ruling is seen as a significant legal development in the lead-up to the 2027 elections, as it affects the APC's preparation in Zamfara North.
