In a significant legal development, the Court of Appeal has declared Chief John Dafan, a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as the duly elected representative for Quaan-pan, Shendam, and Mikang Federal Constituency. This verdict, delivered today, has ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to withdraw the certificate previously issued to Isaac Kwallu and re-issue the certificate of return to Chief John Dafaan of the APC.
The Court’s decision marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing legal battles surrounding the Quanpan, Mikang, Shendam House of Representatives seat in Plateau State. The ruling is said to underscore the importance of adhering to electoral processes and rules, ensuring that candidates are appropriately nominated and then rightfully take their place in the House of Representatives.
It is worth noting that just this past Sunday, October 21, the Appeal Court in Abuja issued a similar groundbreaking ruling, calling for a fresh election for the Plateau North Senatorial seat. This ruling nullified the election of House Minority Leader Simon Mwadkwon, representing the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). The case, identified by suit number CA/J/EP/PL/SEN/15/2023, featured Gyang Yaya Zi and the Labour Party (LP) as the 1st and 2nd Appellants, challenging the election results. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Simon Mwadkwon, and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) were named as the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd respondents, respectively, for the Plateau State Northern Senatorial District.
These recent legal developments are sure to have a profound impact on the political landscape of Plateau State, raising questions about the legitimacy of past elections and emphasizing the significance of adherence to electoral regulations. Stay tuned for further updates on these critical matters as they continue to unfold.
