In a startling revelation, Phrank Shaibu, the Special Assistant on Public Communication to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has accused the former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, and Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, of interfering with the judicial process as the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal nears its conclusion.
Shaibu, in a strongly worded statement, expressed his concern over the actions of Wike and Makinde, alleging that they have been constantly monitoring judges and attempting to influence their decisions. He pointed out that the two governors recently traveled to Plateau State to attend a memorial service hosted by the President of the Appeal Court, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, even though they were reportedly not invited.
According to Shaibu, the event was meant to be a solemn service, but the presence of Wike and Makinde turned it into a spectacle. He accused Wike of using dubious means to establish connections with judges, going as far as giving them gifts under the guise of welfare. Shaibu suggested that Wike’s attendance at the event hosted by the Appeal Court President could be another attempt to influence the appellate court, where the current tribunal judges are from.
Drawing attention to a previous incident, Shaibu highlighted a statement made by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Olukayode Ariwoola, a few months ago. Ariwoola had expressed his happiness that Governor Makinde was a member of the renegade governors known as the G5. This slip of the tongue raised suspicions about the impartiality of the Chief Justice.
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Shaibu further emphasized that Wike and Makinde were gatecrashers at the event in Plateau State, with Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State being the only invited governor. He accused the duo of attempting to impress their paymaster by cozying up to judges. Shaibu also raised concerns about the CJN’s integrity, stating that his close association with Governor Makinde and rumors of a kinsman of the CJN becoming the next attorney-general could potentially manipulate the outcome of the election petition tribunal.
While these allegations have not been proven, Shaibu argued that the actions of Wike, Makinde, and the CJN have raised doubts about the integrity of the judiciary and the fairness of the ongoing election petition tribunal. He called for a thorough investigation into these claims to ensure that justice is served and the credibility of the judicial system is upheld.
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The PDP aide’s accusations have sparked a wave of controversy, with many questioning the motives behind Wike and Makinde’s actions. The judiciary plays a crucial role in upholding democracy, and any interference or manipulation of the judicial process is a cause for concern.
As the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal nears its conclusion, it is imperative that the judges remain impartial and make decisions based solely on the evidence presented before them. The allegations made by Shaibu serve as a reminder that the integrity of the judiciary must be protected at all costs.
The PDP, as the main opposition party, has a responsibility to raise concerns about any potential interference in the electoral process. It is now up to the relevant authorities to investigate these allegations and ensure that justice prevails.
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In conclusion, the accusations made by Phrank Shaibu against Nyesom Wike and Seyi Makinde are serious and demand immediate attention. The judiciary must remain independent and free from any external influence to uphold the principles of justice and democracy. As the election petition tribunal reaches its final stages, the eyes of the nation are on the judges to ensure a fair and unbiased decision. The outcome of this tribunal will have far-reaching implications for the future of Nigerian democracy.
