The Center for Social Justice and National Integration (CSJANI) urges the judiciary to uphold the principles of justice, fairness, and integrity in the ongoing Kogi governorship tussle. As the final arbiter, the judiciary has a critical role in restoring confidence in Nigeria’s administration of justice system. We call on the courts to deliver a verdict that reflects the true will of the people, upholds democratic principles, and promotes national cohesion. The outcome of this case has far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s democratic journey and the trustworthiness of our electoral process. We implore the judiciary to rise to the occasion, demonstrate its independence, and deliver justice without fear or favor.
Recently, Nigeria’s judiciary has been plagued by a disturbing trend of frivolous and compromised judgments, undermining the integrity of the temple of justice. Tribunal and appellate courts have been embroiled in a free-for-all corruption scandal, favoring the highest bidders. This is unacceptable and threatens to destroy the judiciary’s credibility, setting a dangerous precedent. The National Judicial Council must assert itself to address these anomalies, restore sanity to our democracy, and curb electoral manipulation and other criminal political tendencies. Urgent action is needed to preserve the integrity of the judiciary and uphold the principles of justice and fairness.
We are hopeful that the Supreme Court will uphold the will of the people and restore the mandate of the rightful winner of the November 11th Governorship election in Kogi State. We trust that the apex court will deliver a just and fair verdict, one that reflects the true expression of the electorate’s choice. By doing so, the Supreme Court will not only uphold the principles of democracy but also reinforce the confidence of the people in the electoral process and the judiciary.
Rt Hon Dr Ojoachele Felix Akor,
Director General, Center For Social Justice And National Integration (CSJANI)Lagos.
