Atiku addresses Nigerians on Supreme Court verdict

In a press conference held at the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Headquarters in Abuja on Monday, Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the PDP, addressed the recent Supreme Court verdict regarding the February 25th presidential election.

During the conference, Atiku expressed concerns about the implications of the court’s decision and outlined his proposals for electoral reforms in Nigeria.

Atiku began by emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law and the integrity of the electoral process in Nigeria. He expressed his belief that the consequences of the Supreme Court’s decisions would have far-reaching effects on the country, lasting for decades.

The former vice president underscored the significance of the judiciary’s role in ensuring transparent and fair elections.

Atiku asserted that the verdict of the Supreme Court left several important questions unanswered and raised concerns about the state of Nigeria’s institutions.

He highlighted the need to prevent the politicization of the judiciary and the electoral commission, citing concerns raised by retired Justice Musa Dattijo Muhammad and former INEC Chairman, Prof Attahiru Jega.

The former vice president argued that the judiciary and electoral commission appointments are increasingly influenced by political considerations, which hampers democracy. Atiku urged that steps be taken to prevent this and to restore public confidence in the electoral process.

Atiku then turned his attention to the 1999 Constitution, providing a historical perspective on its evolution.

He mentioned that the 1995 Constitutional Conference had recommended significant reforms, including the concept of rotational presidency based on the principle of a six-year single term among the six geopolitical zones.

However, he expressed disappointment that these recommendations were not included in the final constitution.

Atiku concluded his address with a series of proposals for electoral reform. He called for mandatory electronic voting and collation of results, an amendment to ensure that litigation arising from disputed elections is concluded before the inauguration of a winner, and the adoption of a two-round system for presidential elections.

He also proposed a single six-year presidential term rotated among the six geopolitical zones and measures to verify candidates’ qualifications.

The former vice president stressed the need to restore confidence in the electoral system, reduce the incentives for cheating, and enhance transparency in the appointment of judges. Atiku urged that these reforms be considered to return the right to elect leaders to the voters.

In closing, Atiku expressed his commitment to continuing the struggle for democracy and rule of law, emphasizing that the responsibility should now be taken up by the younger generation of Nigerians.

He urged the press and the people to consider the implications of the Supreme Court’s decision and the proposals he presented for the future of Nigeria.