PRESIDENT TINUBU'S OBSTRUCTION OF JUSTICE, INTIMIDATION OF THE PRESIDENTIAL APPEALCOURT TRIBUNAL & RISK OF REGIONAL CONFLICTS August 2023 FOR IMMEDIATERELEASE: The Diaspora Alliance, USA, composed of professionals, academics, civil society advocates, and concerned citizens, collectively voice our deep alarm and concern over actions that threaten the core principles of justice, the rule of law, and democracy in our beloved nation, Nigeria. At this critical juncture in our nation's history, when the fabric of democratic institutions and the rule of law stand threatened, we are compelled to issue this statement, underscoring our steadfast commitment to justice, equity, and constitutional governance.
Preamble:
The rule of law, a revered doctrine that upholds individual rights as paramount, is the backbone of our society, promoting liberty, stability, safety, and responsibility. It bestows upon every Nigerian the unalienable right to pursue their dreams with honor and dignity. At its core, the rule of law demands equality, urging our judicial institutions to reject partiality, discrimination, or prejudice. In the words of legal wisdom, justice must not only be done but must be visibly seen to be done; delayed justice equates to denied justice.
Regional Conflict Risk:
President Bola Tinubu's recent actions, particularly as Chair of ECOWAS, have spurred international apprehension. While superficially appearing as interventions following Niger's coup, further scrutiny reveals a troubling agenda that conflicts with his role in nurturing stability in the region. These maneuvers, juxtaposed against President Tinubu's contested election, hint at an orchestrated attempt to undermine the Nigerian Constitution and unduly influence legal outcomes. Moreover, his aggressive stance towards Niger marks a grave departure from the principles of democratic governance and respect for sovereign nations.
Obstruction of Justice: Also, President Tinubu's ominous warnings of chaos should the presidential election be nullified—despite clear evidence of irregularities and international observers' rejection— pose a significant concern. His warnings against the nullifying of the presidential election on account of 25% FCT votes, despite clear evidence of electoral irregularities, manipulations,
and international observers’ rejection of the election is a cause of great concern Such remarks amount to veiled threats, challenging the essence of judicial independence and impartiality. These calculated statements, made in the context of his contested election, constitute more than political rhetoric; they are brazen attempts to manipulate the democratic process, casting doubts on our judiciary's integrity. It’s a direct assault on the integrity of our esteemed Justices of the Presidential Appeal Court Tribunal. We cannot ignore the gravity of these actions, which erode the trust in our institutions and endanger the democratic ethos we hold dear. Democracy thrives on electoral integrity, reverence for the rule of law, and an unbiased judiciary. These principles must never be compromised for personal or political gains.
We Call for Justice: We urge the judiciary to act as the last beacon of hope for the common man and defender of our Constitution. We implore our esteemed Justices of the Presidential Appeal Court Tribunal and Supreme Court (subsequently) to reaffirm its role in safeguarding our freedoms and democratic institution, thereby stemming the tide of democratic backsliding and tyranny. We call upon them to champion justice as a duty to their office and as custodians of Nigerians' sovereign will. We call upon our esteemed Justices of the Appeal Court Tribunal to act with integrity, uphold the Constitution, administer justice, and restore the integrity of the judiciary by resisting any continued assaults on judicial integrity and the rule of law, even when faced with intimidation and coercion; acknowledging the fact that the judiciary's critical role in preserving democracy and guaranteeing the sovereignty of our people. We Solicitfor Collective Responsibility in Defense of the JudicialIndependence: We alert all Nigerians and stakeholders to grasp the severity of President Tinubu's actions, to desist from obstruction of justice, and to act in accordance with international legal standards and democratic ideals. We call upon all Nigerians, both at home and abroad, to unify in defense of our democracy and to tirelessly advocate for the principles of justice and the rule of law.
We beckon all stakeholders to stand firm in protecting democratic values, speaking out against any actions that would undermine the rule of law. We recommit ourselves to a Nigeria where the rule of law thrives, where justice prevails, voices resonate, and the law stands both as the defender and the avenger of the oppressed.
We underscore that the rule of law forms the foundation of our society, guiding us towards liberty, stability, safety, and responsibility and availing each citizen the chance to realize
their visions with honor and dignity. Together, we must strengthen democratic processes, safeguard citizens' rights, and preserve the harmony of our cherished continent.
This communiqué stands as a unified voice of Nigerians in the diaspora, demanding justice, equality, and steadfast adherence to the democratic values that guide our nation. It's a rallying cry, a declaration of our collective dedication to a free, fair, and just Nigeria.
We express our gratitude for your immediate attention to this pressing issue- To Keep an Eye on The Judiciary.
Sincerely,
SIGNED – DIASPORA ALLIANCE, USA
· Emmanuel Ihim, Esq, President, Diaspora Alliance, USA
· Engr Paul Nwachukwu-Trustee and Executive Governance
· Prince Charles Onyiuke-Regional Director
· Richard Nanmme - Director of Strategy - Diaspora Alliance
· Gillian Okafor- Directorof Mobilization
· Cashmere Uchegbu- Directorof Advocacy
· Peter Akjiuba – Regional Director
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