In a momentous turn of events, the Nigerian Supreme Court’s recent judgment on the election matters concerning Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has not only restored hope to the people of the state but also ignited discussions on the broader issues of justice and judicial accountability.
Commending the Supreme Court for its pivotal role in delivering justice, Professor (Asso.) Elias Nankap Lamle of the Centre for Conflict Management and Peace Studies at the University of Jos expressed gratitude for the restoration of hope in the judiciary as the last resort for the people.
Governor Mutfwang and the resilient citizens of Plateau State were lauded for their commitment to pursuing justice through legal channels, steering clear of self-justice in the face of challenges.
The focus then shifted to the urgent need for the application of the WRIT OF CERTIORARI in cases involving the Appeal Court’s removal of People Democratic Party (PDP) members in the House of Senate, Houses of Representatives, and the Plateau State House Assembly. This recommendation stems from the Supreme Court’s assertion that the Appeal Court ruling amounted to an abuse of court processes.
Professor Lamle argued for a dual approach, advocating for the correction of the abused court processes through a writ of certiorari, coupled with a thorough investigation to expose and hold accountable those responsible for the abuse. The aim is to ensure not only the rectification of the judicial process but also to promote transparency and accountability within the legal system.
“I advocate for a dual approach: correcting the abused court processes through a writ of certiorari and investigating and exposing those responsible for the abuse to ensure judicial accountability. The recent Supreme Court judgment in the case of Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s election in Plateau State has significant implications for the state’s political landscape and the broader context of electoral justice in Nigeria.”
“I seek to commend the Nigerian Supreme Court for its role in restoring hope to the people of Plateau and providing a thorough analysis of the need to apply the writ of certiorari to rectify the abuse of court processes in legislative cases. Additionally, I advocate for an investigation into the abuse and a subsequent call for judicial accountability.”Lamle stated
The implications of the recent Supreme Court judgment extend beyond Governor Mutfwang’s case, reaching into the political landscape of Plateau State and the broader context of electoral justice in Nigeria. The application of the writ of certiorari, inspired by the Supreme Court’s findings, becomes crucial in restoring justice to the sacked PDP members and rectifying the abuse of court processes.
The writ of certiorari, as a formal order from a higher court to a lower court, holds the potential to review and overturn decisions, ensuring consistency and uniformity in the interpretation and application of the law.
Beyond the immediate need for correction through the writ of certiorari, Professor Lamle emphasized the imperative to investigate the abuses that led to the Appeal Court rulings. Holding those responsible for the abuse accountable is seen as essential to maintaining the integrity of the legal system and fostering public trust in the judiciary.
In conclusion, while acknowledging the Supreme Court’s role in upholding justice, the call for fairness and corrective justice is extended to cases involving legislative members. The application of the writ of certiorari is deemed essential for rectifying the abuse of court processes and ensuring a just interpretation of the law. The simultaneous investigation and accountability measures are seen as crucial steps to fortify the foundations of judicial integrity in Nigeria.
