As the Supreme Court prepares to deliver judgments on gubernatorial disputes arising from the March 18, 2023 elections, anxiety grips several states, leading to increased security measures.
The court’s announcement of impending decisions on appeals from Plateau, Kano, Zamfara, Lagos, Cross Rivers, Bauchi, and Ebonyi has intensified tension, particularly in Plateau, Kano, and Zamfara.
Supporters of major political parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP), are taking various actions ahead of the anticipated rulings. Security forces are on high alert in these states.
The governors directly affected by the impending verdicts are Caleb Muftwang (Plateau), Abba Yusuf (Kano), Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Francis Nwifuru (Ebonyi), and Bala Muhammed (Bauchi). Their political fate hangs in the balance, awaiting either confirmation or ousting.
In Jos, the capital of Plateau State, police water tanks strategically placed aim to deter any potential troublemakers. The APC urged calm among its supporters, emphasizing respect for the rule of law. The PDP, on the other hand, called for fasting and prayers for a favorable outcome.
Kano witnessed APC stakeholders distributing souvenirs in anticipation of victory, drawing criticism from the NNPP, which denounced it as an attempt to influence the Supreme Court. The state police commissioner assured residents of safety, detailing security measures in place for the judgment day.
In Zamfara, political gatherings were banned by the police, and patrol vans were deployed in potential hotspots. The APC chapter in the state urged members to remain calm and law-abiding. Cross River State’s APC expressed confidence in retaining its position.
Ebonyi State remained calm, with residents going about their daily activities. Despite the prevailing calm, security forces assured residents of coordinated efforts to maintain peace during and after the verdict.
As the nation awaits these crucial rulings, the Supreme Court’s decisions hold the key to the political landscape in these states, with supporters and security forces bracing for any potential fallout.
