Pelumi Olajengbesi, a human rights attorney based in Abuja, has encouraged Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, the leaders of the opposition, to accept the Supreme Court’s ruling upholding President Bola Tinubu’s victory in the presidential election on February 25 in good faith.
Olajengbesi urged Obi of the Labour Party (LP) and Atiku of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to “exhibit a sense of patriotism and statesmanship as they navigate the path forward” in a statement released hours after the seven-judge bench affirmed Tinubu’s victory on Thursday.
The attorney acknowledged that the two major opposition leaders’ worries were valid, but added that Nigeria’s political underpinnings will be strengthened if they accept the ruling of the highest court.
“In reflecting upon the wisdom of the esteemed jurist, Hon. Justice Chukwudifu Akunne Oputa, J.S.C, we are reminded that the finality of Supreme Court decisions is not a declaration of infallibility but a profound acknowledgment of their ultimate and irrevocable authority in our legal system,” Olajengbesi said.
In the wake of the landmark ruling by the supreme court, Olajengbesi emphasized the significance of maintaining peace, order, and unwavering respect for the rule of law, stating that it is essential for the stability and advancement of our country.
“In light of this, we call upon the opposition candidates and political parties to graciously accept the Nigeria Supreme Court’s verdict in good faith, regardless of their individual beliefs or sentiments.
“We implore them to exhibit a sense of patriotism and statesmanship as they navigate the path forward. While their concerns and claims are duly acknowledged, we encourage them to use this moment as an opportunity to strengthen their political foundations and actively contribute to the continued development of Nigeria’s constitutional framework.
“Therefore, in the spirit of unity, reconciliation, and a profound respect for the law, we wholeheartedly encourage all parties to embrace a peaceful and orderly transition. We fervently hope and pray for a harmonious and law-abiding future for Nigeria, where the spirit of democracy and justice prevails, and our great nation continues to progress and prosper,” Olajengbesi stated.
