The Court of Appeal in Abuja has upheld the exoneration of Alhassan Ado Doguwa, a member of the House of Representatives, from allegations of culpable homicide related to post-election violence in Kano. In a decisive ruling, a three-member panel of justices, led by Justice Adebukola Banjoko, dismissed the appeal filed by the Kano State Government, deeming it without merit.
This judgment reaffirms the earlier decision of the Federal High Court in Abuja, delivered by Justice Donatus Okorowo in suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/714/2019. The Federal High Court had ruled in favor of Doguwa, stating that the charges against him infringed upon his fundamental human rights. The court restrained the Kano State Government from arresting, detaining, or prosecuting Doguwa and awarded him N25 million in damages.
The charges stemmed from violence that erupted during the 2023 general elections in Kano. Doguwa, who represents the Tudun Wada/Doguwa Federal Constituency, had been accused under sections 126 and 128 of the Electoral Act, 2022. However, investigations conducted by the police and the Kano High Court cleared him of any wrongdoing. The Court of Appeal’s ruling now puts an end to the legal battle, providing Doguwa with judicial relief.
In response to the ruling, Doguwa expressed deep gratitude, reiterating his faith in the Nigerian judiciary. “We appreciate Allah for once again vindicating me and absolving me from the mischief of my political opponents,” Doguwa said, clearly relieved by the outcome. He emphasized that this legal victory was a testament to the judiciary’s role as the last hope for justice in Nigeria.
Addressing his constituents, Doguwa urged them to celebrate the victory with gratitude and to avoid any actions that could disrupt law and order. “I want to urge my people, especially at the constituency level, to celebrate this victory by thanking Allah, SWT, and to avoid a breach of law and order,” he stated.
Reflecting on the legal journey, Doguwa expressed a sense of acceptance and personal growth. “I have also accepted all that happened in the course of this judicial tussle as an act of God. I see this experience as an opportunity that has prepared me for greater leadership challenges ahead,” he added, suggesting that this trial had only strengthened his resolve as a leader.
This case has been a focal point in Kano’s political landscape, with many watching closely to see how the legal proceedings would unfold. Doguwa, a seasoned lawmaker and influential figure in Kano politics, had argued from the beginning that the charges were politically motivated, an attempt by his opponents to tarnish his reputation and undermine his influence.
Now cleared by both the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal, Doguwa’s legal victory sends a strong message about the importance of due process and the role of the judiciary in safeguarding the rights of individuals. It also provides a significant boost to his political career, reinforcing his position as a formidable figure in Kano State.
The Kano State Government, on the other hand, has faced criticism for pursuing the appeal, with some political analysts questioning the motives behind the charges. The state’s inability to secure a conviction or present compelling evidence has raised concerns about the misuse of the legal system for political purposes.
As the dust settles on this high-profile case, Doguwa’s focus now shifts back to his role in the National Assembly, where he is expected to continue advocating for his constituents. The outcome of this case not only vindicates him but also bolsters his standing as a resilient and influential lawmaker, poised for further leadership roles in Nigerian politics.
