By ustice Odili
In recent times, the political landscape of Nigeria has been marked by intense anticipation surrounding the verdict of the Presidential Election Petition Court (PEPC). The country’s democratic foundation is being closely examined as various stakeholders express their concerns and expectations. Among the voices raised, the Labour Party (LP) has emerged as a notable critic, drawing attention to a matter that has left many citizens bewildered and worried.
The Labour Party’s Concerns
ustice Odili
The National Publicity Secretary of the Labour Party, Obiora Ifoh, has expressed profound concerns regarding what he describes as a preemptive pronouncement by retired Justice of the Supreme Court, Mary Odili, regarding the upcoming judgment of the PEPC, scheduled for Wednesday. In a statement issued in Abuja, Ifoh voiced the party’s apprehensions, shedding light on the reasons behind their unease.
Justice Odili’s Controversial Utterances
ustice Odili
The crux of the issue lies in Justice Mary Odili’s remarks made at a colloquium in Abuja. These remarks, according to Ifoh, were untimely and unwarranted, especially coming from a retired Justice of the Supreme Court. Justice Odili’s comments, made in the context of celebrating the 25th anniversary of JK Gadzama’s elevation to the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), raised eyebrows due to their apparent pre-judgment of the PEPC’s verdict.
The Boasting and Lavish Praises
ustice Odili
Furthermore, the LP’s concerns extend to the boasting of certain individuals, including serving Ministers and notable legislators, regarding the anticipated outcome of the PEPC ruling. Such premature confidence in the verdict has left the party shocked and dismayed. In a democratic society, the sanctity of the judiciary and the principle of separation of powers are paramount. When those entrusted with upholding these principles engage in preemptive utterances, it is viewed as unfortunate and perilous to the nation’s democratic journey.
Unbecoming Conduct of a Renowned Jurist
ustice Odili
Justice Mary Odili, as a Chairperson of the body of benchers, is expected to uphold the highest standards of conduct and decorum. Her career’s pinnacle was reached within the hallowed halls of the country’s Apex court. Thus, her actions and words carry great weight. The unnecessary praise showered on the legal counsels of both the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Candidate Bola Ahmed Tinubu during an event not related to their cases is seen as undignified for a jurist of her stature.
The Curious Turn of Events
ustice Odili
Another point of contention, noted by the Labour Party, is the change in the PEPC’s stance regarding live television coverage of the hearings. During the petition hearings, live coverage was denied on the grounds of it being a policy issue. However, there is a sudden shift in this stance as the court now seeks to broadcast the judgment live. This inconsistency has raised questions about what transpired between the hearing period and the delivery of the judgment.
The State’s Role in Orchestrating Problems
ustice Odili
The LP has also highlighted concerns over the potential manipulation of events by state agents. There is a growing fear that problems may be orchestrated and attributed to political opposition, leading to further instability. In a democratic society, the right to peaceful demonstration is paramount, and it is the duty of state security agents to ensure the safety of both demonstrators and non-demonstrators.
A Call for Calm, Respect for the Rule of Law
ustice Odili
Amid these developments, the Labour Party implores Nigerians to remain calm and peaceful. They emphasize the importance of upholding the rule of law, recognizing that the matter has not reached its logical and final conclusion. The party underscores its role as a critical stakeholder in Nigeria’s democratic evolution, expressing its concern for the nation’s well-being.
Preserving Nigeria’s Democratic Essence
ustice Odili
In conclusion, the unfolding events surrounding the PEPC verdict have raised critical questions about the state of Nigeria’s democracy. The untimely remarks by Justice Mary Odili, the premature boasting, the lavish praises, and the change in the court’s stance on live coverage have all contributed to an atmosphere of uncertainty. It is essential for all Nigerians, regardless of their political affiliations, to appreciate the importance of due process and the rule of law. Without these foundations, the nation’s progress is at stake.
In the midst of these challenges, the Labour Party remains committed to safeguarding the principles of democracy and ensuring that justice is served in a fair and impartial manner. As Nigerians eagerly await the verdict of the PEPC, it is crucial to remember that the strength of a nation lies in its commitment to upholding the rule of law and preserving the essence of democracy.
