Judiciary played a role in subverting June 12, says ex-REC Igini

Mike Igini, a former Resident Electoral Commissioner in Nigeria, has strongly criticized the judiciary, asserting that it played a pivotal role in subverting the historic June 12, 1993, presidential election. Igini contends that Nigeria's democracy cannot flourish without courts that are resolutely committed to upholding the rule of law.

Speaking at a National Democracy Discourse event in Lagos, Igini detailed how judicial interventions, both before and after the election, significantly contributed to its eventual annulment. He pointed to instances where courts entertained lawsuits aimed at halting the electoral process, despite existing decrees that prohibited such actions. Specifically, he recalled a late-night court order on June 10, 1993, which attempted to stop the election, although the National Electoral Commission chairman proceeded after obtaining a contrary order from a Lagos High Court.

“

The judiciary played a terrible role in subverting June 12.

Igini further highlighted that judicial interference continued even as results began to emerge. He stated that legal challenges were mounted to prevent the announcement of the election outcomes, with a Chief Judge of Abuja issuing an order to halt the release of results. Despite appeals, Igini lamented that the judiciary failed to safeguard the integrity of the ballot during this critical juncture in Nigeria's democratic history.

“

If there is any sign of the subversion of democracy, it is the failure of the judiciary to stand tall and mighty in defence of the rule of law and our democracy. Our judiciary has been a failure in this regard.

"If there is any sign of the subversion of democracy, it is the failure of the judiciary to stand tall and mighty in defence of the rule of law and our democracy. Our judiciary has been a failure in this regard," Igini declared. He extended this critique to the judiciary's historical performance, arguing that it has consistently failed to protect electoral mandates since the Second Republic and even refused to hear MKO Abiola's case during the post-election period.

Looking towards the 2027 general elections, Igini stressed the urgency of judicial reform, asserting that genuine democratic progress will remain elusive unless the courts demonstrate a commitment to justice and the sanctity of the ballot. His remarks underscore a deep-seated concern about the judiciary's role in ensuring credible elections and safeguarding Nigeria's democratic journey.

“

Historically, the judiciary has never been on the side of the sanctity of the ballot in Nigeria. Even when Abiola went to court, they refused to assign his matter during that period.