NAGLI worries over Tribunal’s ruling, wants Supreme Court to review judgements
The Network for Advocacy and Good Leadership Initiative on Thursday, expressed what its termed as deep disappointment and concern over the recent ruling of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal, urging the Supreme Court to review the judgements.
Recall that the Tribunal recently struck out the prayers of Labour Party, Peoples Democratic Party, and Allied Peoples Movement, challenging President Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress emergence.
According to a press statement signed by the NAGLI’s Director-General, Dr Agodi Kanu, the amount awarded against the political parties meant bad governance and rascality taken too far.
The statement partly read, “More worrisome are the bogus costs awarded against these political parties for seeking legitimate justice which is bad governance and judicial rascality taken too far. These are sad developments and we call for holistic review of these rulings by the Supreme Court.
“NAGLI firmly believes that this judgment, delivered by Honourable Justices has fractured our constitution and democracy and set a detrimental precedent for future elections in Nigeria, as the electoral umpire on its own did not keep to her prescribed guidelines and procedures for the conduct of the 2023 presidential election.
“The ruling undermines the principles enshrined in Nigeria’s constitution of 1999 as amended, which guarantees the right to challenge election results and seek legal redress, and the 2022 electoral act. In all the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal position remains unacceptable.
“NAGLI emphasizes the importance of upholding the rule of law, fairness, and justice in our electoral processes. The tribunal’s decision not only undermines the rights of the petitioners but also erodes public confidence in the judiciary and the electoral system as a whole.”
The group urged Supreme Court to right the perceived wrong done by the Tribunal for the good of the country, adding that they remain committed to a better Nigeria.
“We call on the Supreme Court to review these rulings and ensure that future elections are conducted in a manner that upholds the principles of democracy, transparency, and accountability. The judiciary must remain independent and impartial, safeguarding the constitutional rights of all citizens. We are of firm believe that the Independent National Electoral Commission must be unbundled and the appointment of its Chairman reviewed to reflect the choice of the people.
“NAGLI remains committed to advocating for good governance, transparency, and accountability in Nigeria. We will continue to engage with relevant stakeholders, including government institutions and civil society organisations to address the concerns raised by these rulings and work towards a stronger and more inclusive electoral system,” Kanu added.
