In a press conference held on Monday, November 6, 2023, at the Obi-Datti Campaign Organization Office in Abuja, Mr. Peter Gregory Onwubuasi Obi, CON, the Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, addressed the recent Supreme Court judgment regarding the 2023 Nigeria Presidential Election. Below is a comprehensive report of his remarks:
Introduction
Mr. Peter Obi began by acknowledging fellow countrymen and women and extended a warm welcome to members of the media. He emphasized the significance of the Supreme Court’s role in Nigeria’s legal and political landscape.
Supreme Court Judgment
Mr. Obi revealed that he had been abroad when he learned about the Supreme Court’s judgment, which was delivered on October 26, 2023. He acknowledged that the Labour Party’s leadership had already expressed its stance on the judgment.
Concerns with the Judgment
Obi expressed his deep concern about the Supreme Court’s judgment, alleging that it exhibited a disregard for public opinion and failed in its role as a court of law and policy. He asserted that the decision contradicted substantial evidence of election irregularities, non-compliance with electoral rules, perjury, identity theft, and forgery. Obi found it disturbing that the judgment seemingly overlooked these allegations. Moreover, he argued that the ruling allowed violations of constitutional qualifications for presidential candidates.
Loss of Confidence in the Judiciary
Mr. Obi voiced his disappointment over the judgment, stating that it undermined the Nigerian people’s confidence in the judiciary. He argued that the ruling may have upheld the letter of the law but did not serve the current demand for justice. He highlighted the valedictory remarks by Hon. Justice Musa Dattijo Muhammad, which raised questions about the judgment’s rationale.
Exhaustion of Legal Remedies
As a candidate who had exhausted all legal and constitutional remedies available, Obi acknowledged that the Supreme Court marked the end of the legal process. However, he emphasized that this conclusion represented a new beginning in their quest for a better Nigeria.
Challenges in Nigeria’s Democracy
Obi highlighted the weaknesses in national institutions during the 2023 electoral process, citing INEC’s incompetence and the judiciary’s apparent disregard for constitutional principles. He argued that political expediency had overshadowed judicial responsibility, and technicalities had been prioritized over justice and fairness.
Commitment to a New Nigeria
The former presidential candidate reiterated his commitment to building a “New Nigeria” focused on good governance, economic productivity, poverty reduction, transparency, and accountability. He vowed to continue working for the betterment of the nation.
Remaining in Opposition
Obi declared that, in light of the policies and governance modalities of the current administration, there was a compelling need for a strong political opposition. He confirmed that the Labour Party and the Obidient Movement would remain in opposition and continue to advocate for a new Nigeria.
Appreciation and Gratitude
Mr. Obi expressed gratitude to all Nigerians who had supported his cause and mission. He commended the passionate desire of young people for a restructured and inclusive Nigeria. He thanked the legal team, elder statesmen, and supporters for their unwavering commitment.
A Message of Hope
In his closing remarks, Mr. Obi reassured his supporters that the journey towards a “New Nigeria” was not over and that they would persist until their goals were achieved.
Conclusion
Peter Obi concluded his press conference by invoking the blessings of God on Nigeria and its people. He emphasized that their commitment to character, competence, compassion, integrity, and respect for the rule of law would ultimately lead the nation to greatness.
The press conference, which lasted for nearly an hour, marked the end of Mr. Peter Obi’s legal battle regarding the 2023 presidential election and the beginning of his role as a prominent figure in Nigeria’s political opposition.
Written by Nwokwu Chukwuemeka
Obinwannem news correspondent Ebonyi State.
Published by, Okuh Ikeme.
