Toba Owojaiye reporting
Jos, Plateau.
The recent Supreme Court decision overturning the dismissal of Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has sparked renewed calls for amendments to the Electoral Act. The controversy arose from the dismissal of 16 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members in the Plateau State House of Assembly, triggering public outcry over perceived political injustice.
Truth Live News gathered that the Appeal Court’s rulings, stemming from the 2023 general elections, affected PDP members beyond the state assembly, including those in the House of Representatives, two senators, and Governor Caleb Mutfwang. While Mutfwang found relief in the Supreme Court, federal and state lawmakers faced an uncertain fate, as the Supreme Court asserted that nomination issues are internal party matters and not justiciable.
Justice Inyang Okoro expressed concern over the Appeal Court’s decisions, stating, “A lot of people have suffered… It was absolutely wrong.” Other justices criticized the Appeal Court’s jurisdiction, emphasizing that candidate sponsorship is an internal affair of political parties.
Senior lawyer Chief Mike Ozekhome accused the Appeal Court of depriving Plateau State citizens of their voting rights, advocating for a reevaluation of the Electoral Act and proposing that such matters go directly to the Supreme Court.
Despite setbacks, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is determined and has submitted petitions to the National Judicial Council (NJC) and the Federal Judicial Service Commission. Legal opinions vary on seeking a review from the NJC, with some arguing against it and others, including human rights lawyer Femi Falana, suggesting alternative legal avenues such as filing a new case in the Federal High Court against the Federal Government for the salaries and allowances of affected legislators.
As discussions unfold, various voices propose potential solutions, ranging from constitutional amendments allowing the Supreme Court to handle legislative election cases to streamlining the process to address the burden on the apex court.
The complex legal discussions highlight the divergent opinions on seeking justice for affected lawmakers, reflecting the intricate challenges in balancing fairness and justice in Nigeria’s political and judicial arenas. The controversy underscores the need for a thorough examination of the Electoral Act to ensure a more transparent and just electoral process.