Peter Obi, the former governor of Anambra State and Labour Party presidential candidate, has called on the Nigerian judiciary to reaffirm its integrity by properly addressing the election cases before it. In a series of tweets, Obi urged Nigerians to face the current reality and seek legal and acceptable means to change unfavorable narratives.
Obi’s statement comes as the President-elect, Bola Tinubu, is set to be inaugurated following his victory in the February 25, 2023, presidential poll. Dissatisfied with the outcome, Obi and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party filed petitions to reclaim their “mandate,” alleging irregularities and their own victory.
Highlighting the significance of this moment, Obi emphasized the need for reflection and a reassessment of Nigeria’s aspirations and missed opportunities. He called on Nigerians to renew their commitment to the Nigerian ideal, protecting and rebuilding the nation as their only patrimony.
Obi acknowledged the judiciary as a critical component of the democratic enterprise, responsible for evaluating the propriety of decisions and actions. He urged Nigerians to respect and honor the judiciary, expecting it to demonstrate independence and integrity in handling the election cases before it.
While acknowledging the existing challenges and disagreements, Peter Obi urged Nigerians to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and patient, emphasizing that the current situation is not permanent. He reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to working with like-minded Nigerians to overcome the curse of missed opportunities and corruption in order to create a new Nigeria centered on productivity and progress.
In conclusion, Obi’s message resonates with a call for the Nigerian judiciary to uphold its integrity in handling election cases. He urges Nigerians to remain peaceful, steadfast, and committed to the journey of transforming Nigeria into a nation free from corruption and criminality.