Senator Lawal Adamu-Usman, representing Kaduna Central under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has lodged a petition with the International Criminal Court (ICC) against Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, aiming to uphold Nigerias democratic integrity.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) via telephone from Saudi Arabia, where he is performing the lesser Hajj, Adamu-Usman emphasized that his action seeks to protect the democratic rights of Kadunas citizens, not to pursue personal grievances.
According to NAN, the senator filed the petition on behalf of the PDP and its candidate in the August 16 by-election for Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency.
He alleged widespread irregularities, stating, The by-election was marred by vote-buying, harassment of agents, and selective arrestsrealities witnessed by citizens and documented by credible observers.
Adamu-Usman insisted that denying these events is tantamount to denying the truth.
The senator remained resolute, noting that the ICC has scheduled September 1 to review the petition, which addresses the interests of the electorate and PDP supporters.
He accused the governor of orchestrating the unlawful arrest, detention, and persecution of opposition candidates and party members during the election.
As elected leaders, we cannot allow the governor to suppress opposition or manipulate electoral decisions, he declared.
Adamu-Usman refuted claims by a group called Concerned Kaduna Central Constituents, who criticized his decision to involve the ICC, calling their statement a poorly crafted attempt to shield the governor from accountability.
He questioned, If the election was fair, why were PDP agents barred from polling units? Why were opposition figures intimidated while security agencies ignored cash-for-votes schemes in broad daylight?
Dismissing suggestions that his absence during the election undermines his claims, he asserted, Democracy is about standing for justice, not about where one is physically located. I received verified reports from my party and agents across Kaduna.
He warned that democracy cannot thrive if leaders rely on staged press conferences instead of addressing legitimate concerns.
Adamu-Usman vowed to continue advocating for Kadunas people, stating, I speak up because the people deserve leaders who prioritize democracy and principles over power. History will honor those who defend the truth, not those who protect lies.
The petition seeks four key remedies from the ICC: an order to arrest the governor, an investigation into his actions during the by-election, establishment of criminal liability for persecution, and measures to safeguard opposition figures and democratic participation in Nigeria.
In response, Malam Ibrahim Musa, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Sani, revealed that the governor has filed a counter-petition against the senator with the state police command.
Musa declined further comment, stating that additional steps would follow the police investigation.
NAN
