ADC: Matawalle says High Court judgment vindicates Tinubu

Nigeria's Minister of State for Defence, Mohammed Matawalle, asserted that a recent High Court ruling in Abuja has vindicated President Bola Tinubu, refuting claims of interference with the judiciary. The judgment, which affirmed the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) under former Senate President David Mark, was presented as proof of Tinubu's commitment to democratic principles and judicial independence.

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Tinubu’s refusal to interfere with the judgement shows his commitment to democracy and judicial independence.

Matawalle explained that the court's decision to dismiss the suit challenging the Mark-led ADC leadership demonstrated that the party's structure was in line with its constitution and the law. He highlighted this as evidence against opposition allegations that Tinubu was attempting to establish a one-party system or manipulate judicial outcomes. The minister emphasized that the ruling underscored the President's respect for due process and the rule of law.

According to Matawalle, President Tinubu has consistently upheld judicial independence, even when facing criticism from opposition figures. He pointed to Tinubu's long history of advocating for democracy in Nigeria, predating his presidency, as evidence of his understanding of the importance of democratic institutions. Matawalle stressed that an independent judiciary is crucial for democratic survival, political stability, and national cohesion.

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The judgment affirmed the leadership of former Senate President David Mark and disproved allegations that Tinubu was interfering with the judiciary or pursuing a one-party system.

The minister accused some opposition politicians of spreading misinformation to discredit the president when court decisions did not align with their political interests. He urged Nigerians to objectively evaluate judicial outcomes and acknowledge the president's role in strengthening democratic institutions. Separately, Matawalle reiterated the Federal Government's commitment to combating insecurity through ongoing military operations, noting successes in dismantling bandit enclaves and reclaiming occupied communities in the North-West.

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He said such critics failed to acknowledge judgments that clearly reflected judicial independence and the absence of executive interference.