Nigeria: 'Nobody Plays By Rules Anymore', Peter Obi Speaks On Judiciary

Former Labour Party presidential candidate and African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain, Peter Obi, has cast doubt on the integrity of Nigeria's Judiciary, declaring that "nobody plays by the rules anymore" as he expressed his expectations surrounding a pending Supreme Court decision on the ADC leadership crisis.

Obi made the remark on Monday night while featuring on Prime Time show on ARISE News Channel, where he expressed uncertainty over the likely outcome of the apex court's ruling.

"Well, let's see what happens. These days, we can't say, nobody plays by the rules. So, you can't be sure what is going to happen," he said.

He added that any decision on challenging the possible outcome would depend on how events unfold. "Let's see what happens. When the thing gets through, then we'll know what happens."

The former Anambra State governor questioned recent developments involving the Independent National Electoral Commission's (INEC) derecognition of some leaders of the ADC, suggesting inconsistencies in the electoral body's actions.

"And it's even something one can imagine, because they were recognised yesterday. So what's so sudden now that brought about their reverse?" he queried, adding that INEC officials claimed they were "obeying a court rule."

Obi, however, insisted that deeper forces were at play, alleging outright political interference.

"Yes. Do you detect political interference? I say that is what it is, completely, 100%. ... No, somebody is pushing them to do that," he said.

Pressed to provide evidence, Obi maintained his position, saying, "Well, I said what I said. Everybody knows."

He contrasted the situation with past democratic dispensations, citing late former President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua as an example of political restraint.

"I'll just give you an example. When we had a problem, President Yar'Adua decided, 'I don't want this.' Even when the case was in court, and that was the end of it. A government that wants progress supports strong opposition," Obi noted.

Read the original article on Leadership.