A non-governmental organization based in Washington DC the United States of America known as Nigerian-American Coalition for Justice and Democracy (NACJD) has cautioned Nigerian judiciary, especially the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Abuja to do their best to preserve Nigeria democracy by doing what is right as Nigerians await judgement on February 25th presidential election Wednesday.
This was contained in a press statement issued jointly by the Chairman and Secretary of the group, Prof. Eddie Oparaoji and Chijike Ndukwu respectively from US and made available to newsmen.
According to the group, “since the coming on board of Mr. Bola Tinubu as President, Nigeria has been in mourning. The very essence of Nigeria democracy was trampled upon; Nigerian citizenships were robbed in broad daylight. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), charged with safeguarding the integrity of our democratic process, was complicit in partisan activities that shamelessly favored the ruling party, the APC, all while failing to meet crucial constitutional requirements”
The group reiterated that Nigerians from all walks of life watched with bated breath as the APM, PDP, and the Labour Party painstakingly and comprehensively presented their cases against the grievous injustices that marred the 2023 presidential election.
The NACJD which is a non-partisan Washington, DC. Research and Good Governance advocacy non-profit organization in the United States which helps in lobbying the US Government, the Congress, and the policy-making community to influence US policies on Nigeria.
Speaking further, Prof. Oparaoji maintained that Nigerians and the entire world is looking up to the Judiciary as the last bastion of hope to uphold the principles of justice, fairness, and the Rule of Law that democracy rests upon.
It therefore implored the esteemed Justices of Presidential Tribunal to remember the legacy of Judge Sisamnes under Cambyses II of Persia, who chose corruption over justice and paid a heavy price. Your judgment should not be based on technicalities. But be grounded in the bedrock of merit and justice!
The group equally used the opportunity to condemn the recent, unpatriotic, and irresponsible statement made by Retired Justice Mary Odili. Her lack of grit and candor in such a pivotal moment in our history is regrettable. We trust that you, as the current guardians of our democracy, will exhibit the unwavering commitment to justice that our esteemed judicial system demands.
Part of the statement reads “Nigeria stands at the crossroads of history. The winds of change are sweeping across Africa, with citizens rising against oppressive regimes. Your judgment will not only shape the destiny of Nigeria but will reverberate across the African continent
“As staunch advocates for justice and democracy, we urge you to consider the gravity of this moment. We demand a judgment that transcends partisan politics and prioritizes the principles of justice and fairness
“We call upon all Nigerians to remain vigilant and unwavering in their commitment to justice and democracy. The fate of our nation hangs in the balance, and together, we will determine whether democracy in Nigeria will continue to thrive or wither away. The world is watching; history beckons and the Nigerian people demand nothing less than justice”
