At forum on Idigbe, Gowon begs Atiku, Obi, others to allow tribunal work

Former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (rtd), has appealed to presidential candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP), Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, as well as other aggrieved parties to allow the judiciary to perform its constitutional role in the post-election period.

He made the plea, yesterday, at the 15th PUNUKA yearly lecture and symposium in honour of the late Justice of the Supreme Court, Chike Idigbe, in Abuja.

Gowon stressed the need for a strong, independent and impartial judiciary as a beacon of the nation’s democracy.

The ex-leader maintained that the judiciary cannot afford to fail in its role of protecting life and property through the instrumentality of the courts.

His words: “As we move forward as a nation, let us not forget the role that the judiciary plays in nation-building, especially the apex court, in carrying out its duty of questioning veracity of decisions of lower courts.

“As such, we need to allow the apex court to deliberate and come up with its decision. As a people, we should humbly accept the decision as final to maintain sanctity of the judiciary as individuals and as an institution.

“This is very important at this stage in view of the ongoing post-election litigation. Let us give the judiciary the opportunity to do that work and let us accept their decision as it is.”

The Octogenarian continued: “As a former military leader (Head of State), I have seen and known firsthand importance of the judiciary in maintaining stability and order in our society.”

He lauded the late jurist for his dedication to service and bravery in dispensation of justice, adding that his life and works exemplify integrity, courage and judicial brilliance.

Chairman of the occasion and Vice Chairman of the Body of Benchers (BOB), Adegboya Awomolo, equally eulogised the departed judge for demonstrating values.

He described him as a man with integrity and deep knowledge of the law.

Awomolo, urged jurists to be very conscious of their pronouncements, noting that they form part of history.

On his part, Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, Clem Agba, in his goodwill message, charged lawyers to embrace global best practices and develop their technological and other relevant skills for advancement of the nation.

He said the President Muhammadu Buhari administration acknowledged the nexus between law and development, and how the former could serve as an instrument to promote economic and social development.