Bauchi Court Throws Out PRP Case, Slams ₦8m Fine on Claimant
By Ahmed Ahmed
The Bauchi State High Court No. 2, presided over by Justice Kunaza N. Hamidu, has dismissed Suit No. BA/181/2026 filed by Barr. Idrees Safiyanu Gambo against the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Senator Shehu Buba Umar, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), awarding a total of ₦8 million in costs against the claimant.
The claimant, through counsel A.U. Adam, Esq., had approached the court alleging exclusion from the PRP governorship primaries and seeking judicial intervention over what he described as irregularities in the party’s selection process.
During proceedings, the matter took a new turn when the claimant’s counsel indicated an intention to discontinue the suit.
However, counsel to the first defendant, PRP, Muhammad Maidoki, opposed the application, arguing that substantial legal steps had already been taken and urged the court to dismiss the case outright.
After hearing arguments from both parties, Justice Hamidu dismissed the suit and awarded ₦4 million in costs each in favour of the PRP and Senator Shehu Buba Umar, bringing the total to ₦8 million.
Reacting after the ruling, counsel to Senator Shehu Buba Umar described the judgment as a welcome development that restores clarity to the political process and removes uncertainties surrounding the case.
He said the decision allows political activities and preparations to continue without disruption, while commending the judiciary for its firmness and timeliness.
He also urged the public to exercise restraint in commenting on matters before the court, stressing the need to respect judicial processes and avoid speculation that could mislead the public.
Similarly, the PRP State Chairman, Abdulrahman Muazu, expressed appreciation to the court for the ruling, describing it as a moment of relief for the party. He urged members to remain calm and united following the judgment.
