The Nigerian Judiciary has been called upon to rise to the occasion and curb the excesses of desperate politicians to protect the country’s hard-earned democracy.
This call was made by elder statesman and prominent Lagosian, Chief (Dr.) Adesunbo Onitiri, in a press statement to commemorate the June 12 Anniversary and celebrate 26 years of uninterrupted democratic governance in Nigeria.
Onitiri emphasized the need to strengthen democratic institutions such as the Legislature, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Press, and Local Government Administration to ensure good governance and promote the dividends of democracy.
He condemned the growing trend of government officials and politicians disobeying court judgments or twisting legal interpretations to suit their personal interests. Such conduct, he said, must not be tolerated by the courts.
“As the last hope of the common man, the Judiciary must dispense justice in a manner that earns the admiration and trust of all parties in a dispute,” he stated.
Onitiri also urged the National Assembly and State Legislatures to fulfill their constitutional responsibilities by enacting laws and motions that improve the lives of Nigerians, while also taking their oversight functions seriously.
To strengthen governance at the grassroots, he called on state governors to allow local governments to function independently, with their monthly allocations sent directly to them without interference.
The elder statesman further advocated for a vibrant, fearless, impartial, and incorruptible Press—one that can effectively hold governments and politicians accountable, regardless of whose interests are affected.
He also charged INEC to carry out its responsibilities as an unbiased electoral umpire, saying only a credible electoral process can inspire voter confidence and encourage citizens to participate in elections.
As the country marks the 26th anniversary of civilian rule, Onitiri cautioned politicians forming alliances by frequently switching parties to tread carefully, warning that such actions could plunge the country into avoidable crises.
He urged Nigerians not to lose hope in the democratic process, noting that even the worst civilian administration is better than any military government.
Onitiri was one of the three individuals who secured the landmark judgment that allowed Nigerians to vote in the June 12, 1993 election, as well as another judgment mandating the announcement of the election’s winner—before the democratic process was cut short by the military.
He also joined forces with other pro-democracy activists who fought tirelessly to end military rule and usher in the democratic dispensation the nation now enjoys.