Tribunal Judgment: Kogi PDP Youth Leader, Oluwakayode Eseyin Replies JS Okutepa SAN
As a proud Kogite, I find it necessary to address the claims made by the JS Okutepa SAN. The judgment in petition No: EPT/KG/GOV/03/2023, YAKUBU MURTALA & ANOR. VS. INEC & 2 ORS, upholds the principles of justice and the rule of law, contrary to the baseless allegations of judicial compromise and corruption.
First, the assertion that the Tribunal “turned the law on its head” is unfounded and lacks evidence. The Tribunal meticulously examined the evidence presented and followed due process in reaching its verdict. The decision was not a “judicial somersault” but a reflection of the judiciary’s commitment to fairness and impartiality. Accusations of the Tribunal ignoring evidence are not only speculative but also disrespectful to the legal professionals who have dedicated themselves to upholding the integrity of the judicial process.
The writer’s claim that the foundation of justice has collapsed and that law enforcement is inconsistent and incorrect is overly dramatic and unsubstantiated. While no system is perfect, to generalize the entire judicial process based on one unfavorable outcome is misleading. The Nigerian judiciary has a track record of delivering just decisions and holding individuals accountable, as evidenced by numerous other cases that have upheld the law and promoted justice.
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Regarding the statement that “we live in compromised systems,” it is important to acknowledge that challenges exist within any democratic system. However, the notion that “evil doers dictate everything” and that sovereignty belongs to a “few tiny cabals” is a hyperbole that undermines the efforts of many dedicated public servants working to improve the system. Our democracy, while not flawless, is continually evolving and improving, driven by the collective will of the Nigerian people.
Furthermore, SAN’s o
bleak portrayal of Nigeria’s democratic trajectory fails to recognize the significant strides our nation has made. The APC’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance is evident in the numerous reforms and initiatives aimed at strengthening democratic institutions and promoting the rule of law.
The claim that “nothing good will be seen and work in Nigeria until Nigerians collectively agree to do what is right and just” is a pessimistic view that does not reflect the reality of our nation’s progress. Nigerians are resilient and committed to building a just and egalitarian society, as demonstrated by our ongoing efforts to address corruption and improve governance.
The assertion that “society of compromises is a society destined for destruction” overlooks the complexity of political and social dynamics. Compromise is often necessary in politics to achieve greater good and progress. It is through dialogue, negotiation, and collaboration that sustainable solutions are found and implemented. These lamentations are expected because you can’t stroke a child and expect the child not to cry. It has become a norm in our society for a party to assume miscarriage of justice when they are not favoured by the extant laws so the writer’s conclusion over this matter is not alien to our judicial process.
In this same country, we have seen where a former governor who got his mandate through this same judicial system coming around some years later to accuse same system of compromise.
SAN sir, the judgment delivered by the Kogi State Election Petition Tribunal is a testament to the strength and integrity of our judicial system. The law frowns at emotion but embraces fact. This reaffirms the APC’s commitment to upholding democratic values and ensuring justice for all. Rather than succumbing to unfounded allegations and pessimism, let us focus on constructive dialogue and collective efforts to further strengthen our democracy and promote the rule of law in Nigeria.
Congratulations to the legal team for their diligence and professionalism in achieving this significant victory.
