Forty Presidential candidates have said President Muhammadu Buhari has their backing on the purported suspension of the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Walter Onnoghen.
The candidates, under the banner of Forum of Presidential Candidates and Political Parties for Good Governance, made their position known yesterday at a press conference in Abuja,
Chairman of the Forum, Alhaji Shittu Muhammed Kabiru, told reporters that Justice Onnoghen’s removal would not have any negative effect on the 2019 general elections.
He argued that the offence allegedly committed by Justice Onnoghen was not a judicial offence.
Kabiru added that Buhari’s action was just a suspension and not total removal that would have warranted the attention of the National Judicial Council (NJC).
“We strongly believe that President Muhammadu Buhari’s suspension of Hon. Justice Onnoghen as CJN is proper and timely. Onnoghen would have proceeded to constitute the Election Petition Panels.
“No wonder some interested elements are shocked that their game plan has been punctured. A desperate disease needs a desperate treatment. President Buhari acted in the overall interest of the masses of Nigeria.
“So much is required from the judiciary since they hold the power of life and death. Judges are, therefore, expected to live above board and be incorruptible.
“We urge the National Assembly to view the president’s action as non-partisan or motivated by any mundane consideration, but taken purely in the best interest of Nigeria.
“Politicians and interest groups should desist from misinforming the people on the patriotic move by the president,” he said.
