…Wants acting CJN to cease acting, work with NJC
…Wants NASS to go beyond condemnation of suspension
As the controversy generated by the suspension of the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Walter Onnoghen continued unabated, a faith based group, Catholic Action Nigeria has joined the well-meaning Nigerians and the international community in condemning the act even as it called on President Muhammadu Buhari to respect the rule of law and reverse is action immediately.
The group in a statement by the Governor, Board of Trustees, Peter I. Agbontaen, KSJI and 1st Vice Chairman, Council of Patrons, Joseph Adom Kyaagba, mni, KSM, expressed shock at the dramatic suspension of the CJN by President Muhammadu Buhari.
While noting that would never condone any breach of the law by any person or institution including the CJN, Catholic Action Nigeria urged restraint and compliance with the rule of law at all times.
It appreciated the several words of caution both from local and international communities on the need for the executive arm of government to be guided strictly by the rule of law even as it went further to say that “the public outcry by the leadership of the National Assembly is hereby acknowledged, however, given the strategic position and powers vested on the Assembly, this is not enough”.
Catholic Action Nigeria therefore called on the National Assembly to rise up to their statutory function.
Catholic Action Nigeria having noted the impending potential dangers that this conflict portends to the disruption of the 2019 general elections, Nigeria’s democracy, national unity, national security, therefore demanded that the President respects the rule of law and reverses his actions immediately while calling on the acting CJN, Justice Tanko Muhammed CON to respect the National Judiciary Council (NJC) and cease to act in such capacity but rather work in tandem with the NJC to save the Judiciary from this executive intimidation and lawlessness.
It went ahead to demand that all judicial officers especially of superior courts and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) should rise up in defence of the judiciary by refusing to acknowledge the authority of the acting CJN and insist that the President reverses himself in this ill-advised venture and follow due process of law in resolving the matter.
“As this is largely a constitutional matter, we urge the suspended CJN to seek judicial interpretation and challenge his suspension in the court. The National Assembly should take immediate drastic actions to remedy the situation.
“We urge all Nigerians to rise up in one accord to condemn this executive lawlessness and constitutional breach. Nigerians are however, advised not to embark on any form of violence as an expression of displeasure, as that will fuel anarchy which is counter to our aspirations for a truly one Nigeria”, it added.
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