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Onnoghen: Buhari’s Coup against the Judiciary… …The Sack of a Man that was Never Wanted…

Published

7 years ago

January 26, 2019

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

No one would be wrong if he says that the timing of the removal of the Chief Judge of Nigeria, Mr. Walter Nkanu Onnoghen was well planned and cunningly executed. This is because the unpopular decision came barely hours after the National Assembly declared a recess to enable its members concentrate on the campaigns for the February 16 General Elections. The Federal Government has chosen the time to strike knowing the recovery will be slow and agonizing.

Consequently, the furore that has gathered and still gathering over the unceremonious removal may take a longer time to settle, and that is if it ever settles at all.

President Muhammadu Buhari has shocked the nation on Friday when he presented a 20 point text detailing the offences that would warrant the immediate removal of the embattled CJN, who has since Friday January 11, 2019 become endangered specie to the government of the day. His offence: failure to declare personal assets.

The CJN was accused of maintaining domiciliary account with an unnamed bank comprising of different foreign currencies.

He was therefore made to face a six-count charge bordering on wrongful declaration of assets and possession of bank accounts in foreign currencies, which contravened the code of conduct for public office holders.

But the Body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (BOSAN) among other legal entities and the Nigerian public rose in defence of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, stating that the embattled judge “acted rightly in not appearing before the CCT on the day so summoned”.

The body expressed concern that the issue of wrong declaration of assets faced by the CJN has been politicised, hence preventing “an objective discussion of the relevant issues calling for determination”.

The trial which kicked off on Monday, January 14, has gone back and forth with nothing concrete to show for it. As the CCT continually issued threats, the defence team of the CJN also received restraining orders. Obviously, the case was heading to nowhere, and the Federal Government was sure that whatever achievement they had intended would come to, and so the ‘unconstitutional’ sacking and immediate replacement.

By the action, President Muhammadu Buhari, and by extention the Federal may have contravened a court order restraining the President, the Code of Conduct Tribunal and the Attorney-General of the Federation from removing Onnoghen,

According to reports, Justice I. E Ekwo of a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja had on restrained all parties from suspending or removing the CJN.

The order was sequel to a suit filed by the Action Peoples Party with number FHC/ABJ/CS/67/2019.

The judge granted, “an order of interim injunction restraining the 1^st (President), 2^nd (AGF) 4^th (Justice Ibrahim Mohammed), 5th (CCB) and 6^th (CCT) whether by themselves, officers, agents, servants, privies or otherwise, however, described from removing the 3rd defendant (Onnoghen) as the Chief Justice of Nigeria pending the determination of the motion on notice.”

Buhari, however, went ahead to suspend the CJN, relying on an order of the CCT.

Buhari’s action, the excuses he proffered in his speech notwithstanding, seem to many observers as premeditated, considering the fact that he never wanted to confirm him as the substantive CJN as at the time he was due.

Onnoghen was finally sworn in as the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) by President Buhari on Thursday, November 10, 2016 after the intervention of the Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo while the president was away.

While many has condemned the act as witch hunt, it is imperative to recall Constitutional lawyer, Sebastine Hon’s (SAN) assertion as the arraignment first hit the media space

He said: “While I know that the Chief Justice of Nigeria does not enjoy immunity from criminal prosecution, I see this move by the Federal Government as dangerously political and tendentious.”

“Suddenly, we woke to see a petition leaked to the informal or social media, allegedly received by the Code of Conduct on 9th January, 2019.

“Suddenly, we are told charges have been filed against the CJN. Suddenly the Presidency is reportedly asking him to step aside! Was he interrogated or interviewed and his own reactions obtained?”

In the same vein, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar; the Coalition of Political Parties (CUPP) and other top politicians in separate statements alleged that the charges against Onnoghen “is a move by the Muhammadu Buhari-led All Progressives Congress (APC) government to rig the 2019 general elections”.

With the reaction of many Nigerians from all strata of existence, it seems that Buhari has finally bitten more than he can chew. The days ahead will unravel quite a great number of cans of worms.

The All Progressives Congress (APC), the party of the president, is however, rooting for him and applauding his guts in sacking the CJN.

Headline

2027: Peter Obi Raises Doubt About Clinching ADC Presidential Ticket

Published

10 hours ago

March 19, 2026

Eric

A former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed reservations over his ability to clinch the African Democratic Congress’ (ADC) presidential ticket for the 2027 elections.

In a video address to his followers, Obi stated that receiving the ADC’s presidential ticket is not guaranteed.

He said: “Someone asked me how I know for sure that the ADC will give me the presidential ticket. I cannot be certain. What matters is that we are committed to a cause.

I keep wondering how we ended up in this situation and what might happen if we decide to stop working on this project.”

“Obi also said he is still committed to his goals, and he hasn’t let any reported threats stop him.

The former Labour Party presidential candidate praised his supporters for their resilience, recognizing the difficulties of working within opposition politics in Nigeria.

Obi thanked everyone who stayed loyal even though they didn’t get much benefit right away.

“I thank you for your sacrifice. It’s not easy to be in the opposition in Nigeria, and I’m thankful to those who keep supporting even when there’s no clear reward,” he said.

He, however, expressed uncertainty about the future, especially concerning political alliances and commitments.

“How can we be certain that the people we’re working with right now won’t leave us behind tomorrow? I wish we could be sure, but we can’t,” he said.

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Terrorism: Tinubu Seeks UK’s Assistance Amid Challenges

Published

18 hours ago

March 19, 2026

Eric

President Bola Tinubu, on Wednesday, solicited partnership with the United Kingdom to crush terrorism in the Sahel before it engulfs the region.

“Our West African region faces complex terrorism challenges with roots in the Sahel,” Tinubu told King Charles III, Queen Camilla, Prince William, and elite guests, at a state banquet.

Speaking as the first Nigerian leader at the historic venue, Tinubu said: “As one of the largest nations within the Commonwealth, Nigeria looks forward to contributing constructively to the continued growth and vitality of this global community.

“Our West African region faces complex terrorism challenges with roots in the Sahel. Nigeria carries an enormous responsibility to help safeguard regional stability. In confronting these threats, partnership with the United Kingdom remains essential and I look forward to my meeting with Prime Minister Kier Starmer tomorrow.

“Despite these challenges, Nigeria approaches the future with hope and confidence. We are a nation of diverse and vibrant people, of young people dreaming big, of entrepreneurs with a global outlook, and of a hopeful people determined to realise their full potential.”

The Nigeria’s President said it was an honour to stand before the royal family, representing the people of Nigeria to reaffirm the enduring bonds of friendship, history, and shared purpose that have united Nigeria and the United Kingdom for several centuries.

“Allow me first to express my sincere appreciation to Your Majesty and to Her Majesty, The Queen for the warmth and generosity extended to me, my wife, Oluremi, and the Nigerian delegation.

“As the first Nigerian leader to speak here at Windsor Castle, which has served the British Crown for nearly a millennium, is particularly historic. Windsor has stood as a symbol of continuity, witnessing the steady evolution of institutions that have shaped governance, culture, and public life not only in Britain but far beyond these shores.

“Nigeria and the United Kingdom have shared more than just history; our two nations share a vision of progress and resilience. Today, we continue that journey, committed to building a future rooted in partnership, mutual respect, and common values.

“Standing here in Windsor Castle, one cannot help but reflect on Britain’s impact on modern democratic governance worldwide.”

He explained further: “The Magna Carta of 1215 laid the early foundations for the rule of law and the development of parliamentary democracy, establishing enduring ideals around liberty, accountable government, and civic responsibility.

“Great British thinkers and writers such as Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Edmund Burke helped to propagate those democratic ideals. Their influence continues to resonate to this day.

“The literary genius of William Shakespeare and other writers such as Charles Dickens, has enriched and shaped the English language, spoken by over 1.5 billion people worldwide.

“In Nigeria, elements of these traditions continue to inform the institutional foundations of our own republic. Our courts draw upon legal traditions rooted in English common law. Our parliamentary institutions reflect constitutional practices that evolved here over centuries. Our civil service structures have also drawn upon administrative models developed in Britain and adapted to Nigeria’s own national context.

“While institutions matter greatly, our people remain the strongest bridge between our two countries.”

He said the Nigerian community in the United Kingdom has become one of the most dynamic diaspora communities worldwide, adding: “Nigerians contribute enormously to the vitality of this nation. Within the National Health Service, Nigerian doctors and nurses play an indispensable role in delivering healthcare. Nigerian-trained doctors are among the largest groups of international medical professionals serving the NHS.”

He noted the exploits of Nigerians in the country especially in sports, saying: “in sport, rugby players such as Maro Itoje, footballers including Bukayo Saka and Eberechi Eze, and champion boxer Anthony Joshua, illustrate the remarkable human connection that links Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

“Our partnership is further strengthened through the Commonwealth of Nations, which connects 56 countries under Your Majesty’s leadership.”

He expressed confidence that the friendship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom will continue to grow.

“Finally, Your Majesty, I wish to express Nigeria’s deep gratitude to this great nation for the refuge and support it extended during the dark years of military dictatorship. Like many Nigerians involved in the pro-democracy struggle, I found safety here, and I recall that my residence was placed under Metropolitan Police surveillance for protection following threats from agents of the junta.

“That solidarity remains etched in our collective memory, and it is deeply humbling for me to stand before Your Majesty today as the President of a democratic Nigeria.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Nigeria, I thank Your Majesty, Her Majesty The Queen, Prince William and Catherine, the Princess of Wales, other members of the Royal Family, and the people of the United Kingdom for their longstanding friendship.

“In the spirit of friendship and our shared destiny, I invite you all to raise a glass with me:

“To the special bond between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, and to the bright future that we shall build together.”

Headline

Bala Mohammed Debunks Defection Rumours, Affirms Loyalty to PDP

Published

18 hours ago

March 19, 2026

Eric

Bauchi State governor, Bala Mohammed, has dismissed speculation linking him with a possible defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), reiterating his commitment to the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP).

The governor, who also serves as Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, had recently been the subject of reports suggesting he might be considering leaving the opposition party, with claims that such a move could occur within the week.

However, while dismissing the rumour shortly after presiding over the swearing-in of 17 newly appointed Permanent Secretaries at the Government House in Bauchi on Wednesday, Mohammed downplayed the claims, stressing that he had made no official statement indicating any intention to quit the PDP.

He maintained that the reports are unfounded, reaffirming his continued membership of the party.

“I find it amusing that even when I have not said anything officially, people are already discussing me as if I have moved,” he said.