ABUJA/Nigeria: In a recent development, a group known as the Patriots Forum has brought to light an alarming plot that threatens to compromise the outcome of the work of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal (PEPC). According to reports in the media, there are efforts to pressure some members of the PEPC to resign, potentially paving the way for a controversial hearing of petitions filed by Atiku Abubakar (PDP), Peter Obi, and the Allied Progressive Movement (APM). With the parties having closed their cases, they are currently in the process of filing their final written addresses, eagerly awaiting the court’s judgment.
The concerning aspect of this plot is the alleged involvement of Mr. Ahmed Raji, who may be tapped as the Attorney General and Minister of Justice in the administration of President Bola Tinubu. The group has raised questions about the reported conversation between Tinubu and Chief Justice of Nigeria, Olukayode Ariwoola, which could have far-reaching consequences for the outcome of the PEPC, the judiciary, and democracy in Nigeria.
“We need to alert Nigerians to the incestuous affair between President Tinubu and the serving Chief Justice of Nigeria, Olukayode Ariwoola, that may birth Ahmed Raji as Attorney General and Minister of Justice. This followed the request made to Ariwoola by Tinubu for him to nominate an AGF for his administration,” the group said.
The implications of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, responsible for empanelling the Supreme Court panel to hear the petitions against Tinubu’s election, being involved in appointing an AGF for him are deeply troubling. It raises concerns about the potential compromise of the judiciary and the stability of Nigeria’s democracy.
The situation warrants careful attention as it may have serious repercussions on the impartiality and integrity of the judicial process. The sanctity of the PEPC’s work and the trust of the Nigerian people in their democracy hang in the balance, making it imperative to address these allegations promptly and transparently.
