JUST IN: Former State Military Leader In Nigeria Sends Warning To Judiciary Ahead Of Presidential Tribunal Judgement

JUST IN: Former State Military Leader In Nigeria Sends Warning To Judiciary Ahead Of Presidential Tribunal Judgement

A former military Governor of the old Ondo State, Chief Olabode George, has issued a caution to the judiciary, urging it not to infringe upon the people’s right to determine the victors of elections. He expressed dismay over the judiciary’s tendency to make declarations regarding election outcomes instead of directing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to re-conduct elections until the genuine winners emerge.

George, a former Deputy National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), bemoaned the current state of affairs, describing it as a “government of the judiciary, by the judiciary, and for the judiciary.” During a press briefing at his office in Ikoyi, Lagos, he emphasized that the judiciary’s role is to ensure fairness and justice, not to make selections.

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He remarked on the country’s situation, saying, “Our nation has experienced very little positive progress and a great deal of negative developments. In recent days, I have been reflecting as a former military officer and civilian who has served five presidents. We are deviating from the path set by the British, who amalgamated us for their economic interests, even though separation might have been more ideal. We witnessed the positivity of the initial democratic era.”

He continued, “Unfortunately, we are still governed by the same national framework that was rejected by everyone. The 1999 constitution— who drafted it? The constitution is not functioning properly. Thankfully, President Jonathan initiated amendments, but where is the report? When the people are unhappy with a government, their representation is called into question.”

Regarding the recent general elections, George observed, “Our electoral process is chaotic, nonsensical, and causing the nation to regress. It involves manipulation of the system. A mishap on election day is unforgivable, but the INEC chairman assured us they were prepared. However, considering what transpired, future generations will not forgive him.”

George also addressed a pressing issue, stating, “The most contentious aspect in Nigeria today is the judiciary, one of the government’s pillars. Is it right for the judiciary to determine who won or lost an election? Our understanding of democracy is ‘government of the people, by the people, and for the people.’ However, in our case, it appears to be ‘government of the judiciary, by the judiciary, and for the judiciary.’ Is this truly democratic?”

He further emphasized, “The will of the people should prevail. If any irregularities are identified, the judiciary should instruct a fresh election, even if it takes multiple attempts. The judiciary’s role is not to declare winners or losers.”

George also cautioned the federal government against initiating military action in response to the coup in Niger, stating, “The coup in Niger has no bearing on our national interests. We should only engage in war if our national interests are compromised.”