Former Deputy National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, has expressed deep apprehension regarding the judiciary’s involvement in determining election outcomes in Nigeria. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding the people’s right to choose their leaders in a democratic society.
Chief George’s concerns came to light during a press briefing held in his Ikoyi office on Monday, following an announcement by the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal in Abuja that it would issue a verdict on Wednesday. The tribunal’s decision pertained to several petitions challenging the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) declaration of Bola Tinubu as the winner of the 2023 presidential election.
In his address at the briefing, Chief Olabode George raised pivotal questions regarding the judiciary’s role in determining election results, advocating for a more people-centric approach. He expressed his disapproval of the judiciary’s tendency to declare winners instead of ordering INEC to conduct fresh elections in cases where irregularities are evident.
“Our country has experienced both positive and negative developments, but our electoral process is currently in disarray, chaotic, and detrimental to our nation,” Chief George stated. Drawing on his background as a former military officer and a civilian who served under five presidents, he highlighted the pressing issues facing Nigeria’s electoral system.
He criticized the lapses in the electoral process, particularly on the day of the election, deeming them unforgivable. Chief George referenced INEC’s assurance of readiness but noted that the events that transpired were indefensible and would be remembered by future generations.
The crux of Chief George’s concern revolved around the role of the judiciary in determining election outcomes. He questioned the appropriateness of the judiciary deciding the winners or losers of elections, arguing that this approach deviates from the core principles of democracy. He stated, “What we understand by democracy is Government of the people by the people and for the people, but in our case, it shouldn’t be Government of the judiciary by the judiciary and for the judiciary. Is that democratic?”
Chief George advocated for the supremacy of the people’s will in elections, suggesting that if any irregularities were detected, the judiciary should instruct a rerun of the election, even if it were required multiple times. He firmly asserted that the judiciary’s role should not involve declaring election outcomes but rather ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process.
As Nigeria grapples with ongoing debates surrounding the judiciary’s role in elections, Chief Olabode George’s comments have ignited discussions on the need for comprehensive electoral reform and the preservation of democratic values in the country. The nation awaits the verdict of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal on Wednesday, which will likely serve as a significant milestone in this ongoing dialogue.
