Gowon to politicians: Allow tribunals, supreme court do their work

Yakubu Gowon, former military head of state, says aggrieved candidates in the general election should accept the outcome of the election petition tribunals and the supreme court.

Speaking on Thursday at the 15th edition of Punuka annual lecture 2023 in honour of Chukwunweike Idigbe, a late supreme court justice, in Abuja, Gowon said the judiciary plays a vital role in nation-building and should be allowed to do their work.

“It is no secret that the judiciary plays a vital role in nation-building and in keeping us united as a nation,” the former head of state said.

“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, 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. 

“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 its carrying out its duty of questioning the veracity of the decisions of the lower courts. 

“As such, we need to allow the apex court, their deliberations, 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 institutions. 

“The litigation tribunals that are now going, let us give the judiciary the opportunity to do their work and let us accept their decisions as it is.”

Extolling the late jurist, Gowon said Idigbe’s life and works on and off 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 on for generations to come,” he added.