Jonathan Calls on INEC and Judiciary to End Post-Election Litigations and Give Reasons
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Nigerian judiciary to end the prevalence of post-election litigations in Nigeria. He made this appeal during the inauguration of the newly completed Delta State High Court Complex, an extensive project by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
During the event, Jonathan also presented 20 Toyota Prado SUVs to state judges, commending Governor Oborevwori for completing initiatives started by previous administrations. This High Court complex is the third project he has inaugurated in Delta State recently.
Jonathan highlighted the importance of equipping the judiciary with modern facilities to ensure they can perform optimally. The new complex boasts state-of-the-art amenities and round-the-clock power supply.
Expressing his pleasure at being part of the inauguration, Jonathan recalled previously commissioning other significant projects in Delta State, including the State Government House and the Federal High Court Complex. He stressed that continuing and completing past administrations’ projects is crucial for the state’s growth and development.
Jonathan recounted the history of the High Court project, which began in 1991, and praised Governor Oborevwori for completing it. He emphasized the significance of this achievement for the judiciary, encouraging ongoing support and development.
Reflecting on his recent visit to South Africa, Jonathan compared the electoral processes of Nigeria and South Africa. He noted that in South Africa, it is uncommon for election losers to go to court, in contrast to Nigeria where post-election lawsuits are rampant. He attributed this to the perceived impartiality and integrity of the South African electoral and judicial systems.
Jonathan called for a stronger and more reliable judiciary in Nigeria to reduce the number of election-related court cases. He believes that if the judiciary maintains its integrity, many disputes would be resolved without litigation.
Governor Oborevwori thanked Jonathan for inaugurating the project and acknowledged the contributions of past governors in initiating and committing to the High Court project. He reaffirmed his commitment to completing projects inherited from previous administrations, motivated by the judiciary’s need for a suitable operational facility.
Oborevwori also highlighted the provision of 20 Toyota Prado SUVs to state judges as a fulfilled promise. He expressed gratitude to Jonathan, describing him as a dedicated patriot and leader.
The state’s Commissioner for Housing, Mr. Godknows Angele, detailed the new complex’s features, including five floors with six courtrooms, conference halls, witness waiting rooms, holding cells, secretarial offices, ceremonial and multi-purpose halls, and lounges for lawyers, judges, and VIPs.
Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, represented by Justice Bolaji Yusuf, lauded the state government for providing such a magnificent judicial facility. He hoped other states would follow Delta State’s example.
Chief Judge of Delta State, Justice Theresa Diai, expressed her gratitude for the new facility, noting that its internet capabilities would enhance the judiciary’s service quality.
