Former Head of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon has urged Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Peter Obi of the Labour Party, LP, and other politicians with cases before election petition tribunals to accept the outcomes in good faith.
Gowon advised that the Judiciary must be allowed to work without external interference as only an independent Judiciary could protect the nation’s democracy.
He stated these while speaking in Abuja at the 15th edition of Punuka annual lecture in honour of the late Justice Chike Idigbe, a former Justice of the Supreme Court, who died in 1983.
At the event theme: The life and legacy of Honourable Justice Idigbe: 100 years of a gold standard for judges in Nigeria”, Gowon hailed the Judiciary for always acting as a stabilising force in many instances when Nigeria confronted challenges.
He said: “As we move forward as a nation, let us not forget the role that the Judiciary plays in nation-building, especially the apex court, in carrying out its duty of questioning the veracity of the decisions of the lower court.
“As such, we need to allow the Justices of the apex court to engage in their deliberations and come up with their decisions, and as the public, to be humble enough to accept their decision as final, in order to maintain the sanctity of the Judiciary as individuals and as an institution.
“I think this is very important at this stage in view of the post-election litigations that are now going on. Let us give the Judiciary the opportunity to do their work and let us accept their decision as it is.”
On the contribution of the Judiciary to the sustenance of the nation’s democracy and unity, the former Head of State added: “As a nation, we have come a long way since our independence in 1960, and we have faced many challenges along the way to put it moderately.
“It is no secret that the Judiciary plays a vital role in nation-building and in keeping us united as a nation. The judiciary, in essence, is the guardian of the Constitution and the rule of law.
“The Judiciary provides a check on the powers of the Executive and legislative branches and ensures that the rights and freedoms of the citizens are protected through the instrumentality of the court.
“As a former military leader (Head of State), I have seen and known firsthand the importance of the Judiciary in maintaining stability and order in our society.
“The Judiciary serves as the bedrock of our democracy, and it is only through a strong, independent and impartial judiciary that we can ensure the protection of our democracy and the advancement of our nation.
“The Judiciary has over time maintained their enviable status as the beacon of hope for our democracy, serving as the balance between every class and truly the hope of the common man.”
While hailing the late jurist, Gowon noted that Justice Idigbe’s “unwavering commitment to upholding justice and the rule of law is a testament to his unflinching character and his belief in our nation evinced through his life and office.
“Justice Idigbe’s life and works, off and on the Bench exemplify the ideals of integrity courage and service.
“His unwavering dedication to justice and fairness has been a source of inspiration to many and his legacy will continue to live for generations to come.
“Judges, like Justice Chukwuwike Idigbe, are the unsung heroes of our democracy and their work is essential for the growth and development of our society.”