Bauchi lawyers affirm INEC’s decision on governorship poll

Body of Bauchi Lawyers of Conscience (BOBALAC) has hailed the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to rescind its planned re-run poll in Tafawa Balewa Council, which was cancelled over stolen result sheet at the collation centre.

The group said the initial cancellation by the electoral umpire was wrong and could not be found on the applicable laws.

BOBALAC convener, Shipi Rabo, stated: “We consider INEC’s decision as the best and most proper thing to do under the circumstance.

“Although, we recognise the right of stakeholders, such as participating political parties like the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, to express their views on the issue, we shall however be quick to put the issues in their proper place.

“For example, we wish to make it abundantly clear that contrary to the position of APC on the issue, to the effect that INEC lacks the power to reverse its earlier decision on the matter, the correct view is that in addition to relevant sections of the constitution, the electoral act and other extant regulations, the electoral body has ample powers under the interpretation act to take any decision that will facilitate the attainment of its mandate, which is delivering free and fair polls.”

The lawyers urged the parties to stick to the rules of the game and called on INEC to remain unbiased in announcing the winner of the poll.