US, UK frowns over Onnoghen’s strategic suspension

United States of America has reacted to the suspension of Walter Onnoghen as chief justice of Nigeria (CJN), TOPNAIJA.NG reports.

President Muhammadu Buhari suspended Onnoghen on Friday, citing an order of the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT).

In a statement on Saturday, the US embassy in Nigeria said it had taken note of widespread criticisms that the suspension is illegal.

“The Embassy of the United States is deeply concerned by the impact of the executive branch’s decision to suspend and replace the Chief Justice and head of the judicial branch without the support of the legislative branch on the eve of national and state elections,” the statement read.

“We note widespread Nigerian criticism that this decision is unconstitutional and that it undermines the independence of the judicial branch. That undercuts the stated determination of government, candidates, and political party leaders to ensure that the elections proceed in a way that is free, fair, transparent, and peaceful – leading to a credible result.

“We urge that the issues raised by this decision be resolved swiftly and peacefully in accordance with due process, full respect for the rule of law, and the spirit of the Constitution of Nigeria. Such action is needed urgently now to ensure that this decision does not cast a pall over the electoral process.”

The statement comes three days after the US and UK threatened to impose visa ban on those who interfere with the general election.

In the same vein, the British high commission says the removal of Walter Onnoghen as chief justice of Nigeria (CJN) gives cause for concern.

President Muhammadu Buhari replaced Onnoghen with Ibrahim Muhammad on Friday, citing an order of the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT).

The action has sparked outrage within and outside the country.

In a statement on Saturday, the commission acknowledged the sovereignty of Nigeria but said the action could affect perceptions about the elections.

It said the international community is monitoring developments in the country closely, urging stakeholders to work towards achieving free and fair elections.

“The British High Commission expresses serious concern over the suspension of the Chief Justice of Nigeria. We have heard a wide range of credible and independent voices, including in the Nigerian legal profession and civil society, who have expressed concern over the constitutionality of the executive branch’s suspension of the chief officer of the judiciary,” the statement read.

“We respect Nigeria’s sovereign authority and its right to adjudicate on constitutional provisions but as friends of the Nigerian people, we are compelled to observe that the timing of this action, so close to national elections, gives cause for concern. It risks affecting both domestic and international perceptions on the credibility of the forthcoming elections. We, along with other members of the international community, are following developments closely.

“We encourage all actors to maintain calm and address the concerns raised by this development through due process, demonstrating their commitment to respecting the constitution and the impartial administration of the rule of law. We further urge them to take steps to ensure that elections take place in an environment conducive to a free, fair and peaceful process.”