IPAC advocates robust democracy, judicial process
As Ganduje, Okutepa others brainstorm
Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), yesterday, emphasised the need for a robust democracy in Nigeria, and to strengthen the country’s judiciary.
IPAC also said Nigerian courts must reassess the principles of electoral jurisprudence that facilitate rigging and imposition of rejected candidates.
National Chairman of IPAC, Yusuf Mamman Dantalle, stated this in Abuja at the first council roundtable discussion with the theme: “The Role of the Judiciary in Nigeria’s Democratic Sustainability”.
He noted that the roundtable series would continue to address pressing national and international issues by assembling experts to enhance democratic practices.
He explained that the vision of the discussion was to consolidate and deepen democracy in Nigeria by creating an environment that fosters successful elections, political stability, and peaceful electoral processes.
Dantalle said: “Our decision to commence the Roundtable Series is due to the fact that the Judiciary is the bastion and bulwark of the nation’s democracy. It is the stabilising force and the last hope of all aggrieved people against opponents’ inclination, penchant and propensity for injustice.
“The court is the Temple of Justice, its ministers are expected to be upright, men and women of integrity, who will dispense justice no matter whose ox is gored.”
“Priests in the temple of justice are expected to be God-fearing, courageous and fearless in the discharge of their constitutional duties, conscious of the fact that they sit in judgment over the affairs of fellow compatriots, acting on behalf of God, who is the judge of all.”
Like Caesar’s wife, they should live above board.”
In his address, the National Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, acknowledged judiciary’s crucial role in Nigeria’s democracy, noting that its historical significance in upholding the rule of law and safeguarding citizens’ rights.
He said: “The judiciary in Nigeria, as you are aware, has played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s democratic landscape. From the early days of independence to the present day, the judiciary has been entrusted with upholding the rule of law, ensuring justice, and safeguarding the rights of citizens.
“However, it is important to mention that in an attempt to play such a critical role, the judiciary faces various challenges such as inadequate funding, delays in justice delivery, judicial independence, amongst others.
“Despite these challenges, I believe that there are opportunities for reforms that would further improve and strengthen the judiciary, as well as enhance its role in democratic sustainability.”
Keynote speaker at the event, Chief Jibrin Samuel Okutepa, SAN, lamented the state of Nigerian democracy, describing it as distant from true democratic ideals.
He criticised the prevalence of electoral fraud and the militarisation and thuggery that undermine the democratic process.
Related
Politics
Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox every day of the week. Stay informed with the Guardian’s leading coverage of Nigerian and world news, business, technology and sports.
0 Comments
We will review and take appropriate action.