Atiku Raises Concerns Over Judiciary’s Independence, Ruling Party Dismisses Allegations

In the aftermath of the February 25, 2023 general elections in Nigeria, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has expressed deep concern over what he perceives as a plot to undermine the Nigerian judiciary and democracy.

In response, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Tinubu have vehemently dismissed these claims as baseless and motivated by Atiku’s alleged desperation.

In a statement signed by his Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, Atiku outlined the post-election developments that have troubled many Nigerians. He asserted that the election, which brought the current government into power, was touted as the best ever but has been marred by controversies and questions about its integrity. In light of this, Atiku and other parties involved in the election have chosen to challenge its outcome, seeking justice through the judicial system.

Atiku emphasized the significance of an independent judiciary, which is essential in upholding democracy and ensuring the separation of powers. He stated that the judiciary plays a vital role in providing a fair and unbiased evaluation of electoral disputes. However, Atiku expressed concern over threats and pressures allegedly coming from the ruling party to influence the judicial process, potentially compromising the independence of the judiciary.

The APC swiftly responded to Atiku’s alarm, dismissing it as “arrant nonsense” and claiming that it is merely an attempt to find an excuse for the expected failure of Atiku’s case at the tribunal. The party, through its spokesperson, Felix Morka, maintained its confidence in the courts to administer electoral justice in accordance with the country’s laws and constitution. The APC firmly reiterated its conviction that President Bola Tinubu won the election convincingly.

President Bola Tinubu, through his Special Adviser on Special Duties, Communications & Strategy, Mr. Dele Alake, also issued a response, calling Atiku’s accusations disingenuous, shameful, and unbecoming of a former Vice President. Tinubu reminded Atiku that the president led the charge in promoting the rule of law and an independent judiciary during his tenure as Governor of Lagos State under a PDP-led central government. Tinubu asserted that he and the APC have no intention of undermining the judiciary, as they have confidence in their legal defense.

The statement further urged Atiku to allow the judiciary to perform its duty without interference or harassment. It emphasized that the court would make its ruling based on the presented evidence and points of law, rather than presumptuous speculations or unfounded accusations.

As the post-election legal battle continues, the rift between Atiku Abubakar and the APC deepens, with each side vehemently defending its position. While Atiku raises concerns about the independence of the judiciary, the APC and President Tinubu assert their confidence in the legal process and reiterate the transparent nature of the election that brought them to power. As the country awaits the judiciary’s ruling, the importance of an unbiased and independent judicial system remains at the forefront of Nigeria’s democratic journey.