Press Statement
KOGI: IS PROF. JEGA THE NEW ‘CJN’?
The Jibrin Isah Campaign Organisation views with utter dismay , statements credited to the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on the political logjam in Kogi State. Rather than seek the correct interpretation of the Supreme Court’s verdict in a competent court of law, Professor Attahiru Jega audaciously arrogated to himself the powers of the court when, with an air of finality and impunity, ‘directed’ that captain Idris Wada be “immediately sworn in as the governor of Kogi State.
By this statement, Jega confirmed to Nigerians and the international Community, perhaps unwittingly, that he was an apologist of the Peoples Democratic Party and that he was a man ever willing to do the bidding of his appointors. It is disheartening, therefore, to see an Institution that is financed by the Nigerian People to assail and flagrantly treat the constitution of Nigeria with disdain as well as arrogate to itself the powers of the apex Constitutional Court in the land.
The Pertinent question is: What is INEC attempting to hide? Whose interest(s) is INEC trying to protect? We assert, very strongly, that it is not the desire of the Nigerian People, to whom Sovereignty belongs. We are shocked that the judgement of a constitutionally recognized and well constituted authority like the Supreme Court which was written in plain English language could be misinterpreted and flagrantly violated for alleged selfish purposes.
Jega and his INEC should know that, an electoral umpire is expected to be impartial unto death. He is like a judge, required to do justice and be fair to all concerned. He is a referee, expected to apply the rules and respect the rights of all parties.. He is the co-ordinator of an orchestra expected to ensure the best performance of the ensemble. Now that it is obvious that the judiciary has performed its duty honestly and diligently, we urge the authorities responsible for the implementation of such a landmark judgment to ensure that the orders of the Apex Court are put into action and obeyed by all.
Therefore, we strongly call on the Federal Government and all lovers of democracy to initiate legitimate moves that will uphold the rule of law, sustenance of peace and fuller lives in our communities in Kogi State. As a disciplined campaign organisation, we believe that the Courts remain the bastion of hope in the defense of the rights of the oppressed; and it is traitorous when an institution, financed from our collective patrimony and purportedly in collusion with the terrestrial powers, impugns the authority of our Judiciary,particularly our very esteemed SUPREME COURT.
We remain calm that irrespective of the odious proclivities of institutionalized impunity in the land, Justice shall be done in this matter.
PHRANK SHAIBU
Director,Public Communication and Strategy.
THE JIBRIN ISAH CAMPAIGN ORGANISATION
