Politicians approach court for power, not justice – Adebayo, ex-presidential candidate

In the aftermath of the Supreme Court’s final ruling on the 2023 presidential election, Prince Adewole Adebayo, a contestant representing the Social Democratic Party (SDP), expressed his disappointment with the behavior of politicians towards elections in an interview with DAILY POST. Adebayo discussed several issues, including the observation that politicians often pursue power, not justice, when they resort to legal action after an election. He emphasized the need for urgent electoral reforms to ensure that elected candidates do not assume office until all court cases against them are resolved. He also touched on the appointment of judges to the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court, and the role of technicalities in legal proceedings.

Regarding the lengthy duration of presidential election petitions, Adebayo acknowledged that the process could be improved, but he also noted that it had already seen a departure from past practices. He advocated for the conclusion of all legal proceedings before elected candidates assume office to avoid public skepticism about the judgments.

To achieve a more efficient electoral system, Adebayo outlined three key steps, with the majority of the responsibility falling on politicians. First, he emphasized the importance of legal reform, acknowledging that lawmakers themselves, who are politicians, play a pivotal role in the process. Second, he praised the judiciary for its efficiency in election-related cases but stressed that the key to success lies in politicians’ behavior. Lastly, he highlighted that election petitions should not be viewed as a competition for power, but rather as a quest for justice, which is the primary purpose of the court.

Adebayo addressed the perception that the Supreme Court prioritizes technicalities over the substance of election matters, stating that election cases inherently involve technicalities due to the unique nature of elections. He pointed out that the specific claims brought before the court determine its focus, and it can only provide relief within the bounds of the law. He argued that politicians seeking technical remedies should not be surprised if the court’s response is technical in nature.

Regarding the Supreme Court’s ruling on the 25% threshold for the Federal Capital Territory, Adebayo believed that the court made a clear and logical decision, referring to the INEC’s previous stance on the matter.

When asked about allegations made by retired Justice Musa Muhammed Datijo regarding issues within the judiciary, Adebayo explained that such concerns were not surprising to those familiar with Datijo’s outspoken nature. He noted that problems arise when judges are required to handle administrative matters outside the courtroom, such as approving contracts for court repairs.

Adebayo also addressed the issue of judicial appointments and the depletion of justices in the Supreme Court, emphasizing that the president plays a significant role in appointing justices based on recommendations from the National Judicial Council (NJC). He suggested that the appointment process should consider candidates from both the bench and the bar. Starting with the Court of Appeal, the appointment process could be reformed to ensure a balanced and thorough selection of justices.

Overall, Adebayo’s interview shed light on various aspects of the Nigerian electoral system and the judiciary, emphasizing the need for political will and legal reforms to improve the electoral process and the administration of justice.