Court Ruling Vindicates Tinubu on Judiciary Independence, Minister Says

Nigeria's Minister of State for Defence, Mohammed Bello Matawalle, has asserted that a recent Federal High Court judgment has vindicated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's stance on judicial independence and his rejection of a one-party system. The court's decision affirmed the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) under former Senate President David Mark, dismissing a suit filed by House of Representatives member Leke Abejide.

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The former governor noted that the court dismissal of the suit filed by House of Representatives member Leke Abejide challenging the ADC leadership, “had once again demonstrated that President Tinubu remained committed to the independence of the judiciary, due process and the rule of law.”

Matawalle, in a statement issued by his media aide, argued that this ruling demonstrates President Tinubu's unwavering commitment to the independence of the judiciary, due process, and the rule of law. He emphasized that despite political attacks, the President has never interfered with judicial proceedings or attempted to influence sensitive cases. Matawalle highlighted Tinubu's history in the struggle for democracy, suggesting he deeply understands the importance of preserving democratic institutions.

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President Tinubu’s democratic credentials were built long before he became President. So having participated in the struggle for the restoration of democracy, he fully understood the importance of preserving democratic institutions.

"The sanctity of the judiciary remained non-negotiable under the current administration because the President believed that a strong and independent judiciary was fundamental to Nigeria’s democratic survival, political stability and national cohesion," Matawalle stated. He accused some opposition politicians of spreading falsehoods to discredit the President, noting their tendency to criticize court decisions that do not favor their political interests while ignoring those that uphold judicial independence.

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The sanctity of the judiciary remained non-negotiable under the current administration because the President believed that a strong and independent judiciary was fundamental to Nigeria’s democratic survival, political stability and national cohesion.

On the security front, Matawalle assured Nigerians that the federal government remains resolute in its efforts to combat insecurity. He pointed to significant successes achieved by troops in Operation Fansan Yamma, which have dismantled bandit enclaves, neutralized leaders, and recovered communities in the North-West. He added that similar operations across the country are weakening terrorist and bandit groups, leading to improved security in affected areas. Matawalle reiterated President Tinubu's commitment to providing the armed forces and security agencies with necessary support to defeat criminal elements.

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Genuine patriots should be fair enough to commend the President when court decisions clearly showed that democratic institutions were functioning without executive interference.