A group under the auspices, Guardians of Democracy has accused the main opposition party in Nigeria, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of try to arm twist the judiciary to deliver judgement in it favour.
The group expressed disappointment over PDP’s resort to undermine the independence of the judiciary without resource to the implications of its actions. Members of the group who besieged the entrance of the Appeal Court in Abuja were seen carrying placards bearing different inscriptions such as: say no to bad loser, say no to Plateau PDP shenanigans, and Guardians of Democracy stand with judiciary.
Addressing a group of protesters in Abuja on Thursday, Convener of the group, Adamu Matazu, accused the PDP of hypocrisy. He said the party on the one hand claims to be supporting the judiciary and on the other hand sponsoring protests against the same judiciary. He said the party’s actions show it has lost it reputation.
Mr. Matazu cited the development in Plateau State as a prime attempt by the party to undermine the judiciary.
He said, “in recent months, we have witnessed a disturbing trend of attempt to undermine the judiciary. This attempts have come from various quarters, including politicians, lawyers and members of the public. These individuals have sought to influence the judiciary’s decision through intimidation, bribery, l and even threat of violence.
“We must acknowledge the significance of this moment in history. The recent events in Plateau State are a prime example of attempt to undermine the judiciary. It is with great concern that we recognise Plateau State as the epicentre of the disturbing trend.
He however, expressed the Guardians of Democracy’s support for the Nigerian judiciary over its role in deepening the country’s democracy.
He said his group belief in the judiciary’s ability to uphold the rule of law and deliver justice for all Nigerians.
The group single out the Appeal Court and salute its courage in standing up against what they described as “shenanigans of political party agents”, who are hellbent on arm twisting the judiciary to deliver judgements that contradict the very foundation of our society.
He call on Nigerians to join in defending the judiciary, saying “we must stand together to protect our democracy”.
Members and supporters of the PDP in Plateau state had protested the decision of the Appeal court to sack some federal lawmaker. The court had ask the Independence National Electoral Commission, INEC to issue certificate of return to candidates of the opposition All Progressives Congress.
