Without any doubt, the judges presiding over the Presidential Election Tribunal are between the devil and the deep blue sea. Which ever way they eventually decide, there would be rancour, possibly protests, even uprising.
Of course, they did not drop from the sky, they are Nigerians, who live in Nigeria and saw what happened before, during and after that controversial election, with a more controversial outcome. And the judges are aware that millions of suffering Nigerians demand nothing than justice and the restoration of their mandate.
However, on the other hand, the judges are under immense unseen and unsaid pressure from the government of the day, which is a defendant in the case. Don’t forget that President Bola Tinubu sacked all heads of security agencies, but retained the director of the Department of State Service, Yusuf Bichi, who was as a matter of fact brought back from retirement to head the secret police by former President Muhammadu Buhari. Bichi’s son is a fervent supporter of Mr. Tinubu. And we don’t know what have been going on behind the scene. We could not rule out blackmails on the judges – if there are dirts on them.
Now, 100 concerned Nigerians have added to the yoke of the judges, signing a petition demanding justice and transparency in the ongoing presidential electoral tribunal proceedings.
This comes amid general feeling, even consensus that the last presidential election was marred by alleged electoral malpractices, not to mention violence and voter suppression.
The petition, initiated by the Coalition of Concerned Nigerians, CCN, and addressed to the justices, illuminated the frustrations and anxiety felt by a significant portion of the electorate.
It was addressed to Hon. Justice Haruna Tsammani, leader of the 5-man panel handling presidential election petitions, and it read, “We, the Coalition of Concerned Nigerians CCN, write to you today with a deep sense of responsibility and a firm belief in the sanctity of justice.
”As the lead judge of the esteemed panel of judges entrusted with the critical task of adjudicating the 2023 presidential election petition, we implore you to honour and strictly abide by the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, to which you have all solemnly sworn allegiance.
“At this pivotal time in Nigeria’s history, we call upon you to prioritize the welfare and interests of our great nation above any individual concerns.
”Nigeria stands at a watershed this moment, where citizens from all corners of our diverse nation have united to safeguard our democracy through free, fair, and credible elections. We trust in your wisdom and impartiality to recognize the gravity of this moment.
“It is crucial to note that invited and accredited election observers, such as the European Union mission, have presented detailed reports highlighting numerous aberrations before, during and after the elections.
”These reports, along with other substantial evidence, have been diligently presented before this tribunal. We beseech you to consider these vital pieces of evidence and apply the law with the utmost objectivity and fairness.
“The judiciary holds the sacred responsibility of being the last hope of the common man. Nigerians at home and abroad anxiously look forward to you for justice in this unprecedented and distinct election.
”Your decisions will profoundly impact the course of our nation’s future. This is a golden opportunity for each of you to etch your names in the annals of Nigeria by upholding the principles of justice and equity.
“In the words of Martin Luther King Jr., ‘Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.’ As guardians of justice, we implore you to recognize the profound importance of your role and the impact it has on our society as a whole.
“By delivering a just and unbiased verdict, you will not only uphold the principles of justice but also inspire faith and confidence in our judiciary.
”Justice delayed is justice denied. Let us unite in our pursuit of a Nigeria where justice prevails, and democracy thrives.”
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