The continuity of Senate President Ahmad Lawan’s 23 years sojourn as a lawmaker was laid to rest on Thursday after he conceded defeat in the legal battle to reclaim the All Progressives Congress’ Yobe North Senatorial ticket for the 2023 elections.
Lawan, in a personally signed statement, said he would not appeal Wednesday’s judgment delivered by the Federal High Court, Damaturu, in Yobe State, which gave victory to his rival and winner of the APC primary election, Bashir Machina.
He said that he had accepted the judgment of the court which disqualified his candidature and participation in the said election.
“Yesterday, Wednesday, September 28, 2022, the Federal High Court in Damaturu delivered judgment on the rightful candidate for Yobe North Senatorial District for the 2023 National Assembly elections,” the statement partly read.
“The said judgement disqualifies my candidature and therefore my participation in the elections.
“After due consultations with my political associates, supporters and well-wishers, I have decided not to appeal against the judgement. I accept the judgement.”
Lawan appreciated governor of his state and members of his constituency for their support throughout his stay at the Senate and during the court battle.
“I deem it appropriate to thank His Excellency, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam for the leadership role in the APC political family in Yobe State. I also thank His Excellency, Governor Mai Mala Buni for the support and brotherhood.
“To my constituents, I thank you all for your unflinching support, loyalty and unreserved commitment to the course of building our people and Yobe North Senatorial District and indeed Yobe State.
“I want to assure you that I will continue to serve you in my personal and any other capacity at all times.
“We journeyed together for a long time, and this journey will remain a life long journey. It has been a wonderful relationship and it can only get stronger. I am indebted to you all. Alhamdulillah,” he added.
Recall that Justice Fadima Aminu of the Federal High Court, Damaturu, on Wednesday ordered the APC to forward the name of Machina to INEC as the authentic winner of the primary, which was held on the 28/05/2022.
Aminu described the primary election where Lawan emerged as the candidate as “phantom.”
