In recent days, rumors and speculations have been circulating on social media, suggesting that the Chief Justice of Nigeria, CJN, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, engaged in telephone conversations with President Bola Tinubu and the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Yusuf Bichi.
These alleged conversations were said to be attempts to influence the judges presiding over the Presidential Election Petition Court (PEPC).
However, the CJN, through an official statement from the Supreme Court, has categorically denied these claims and emphasized the commitment of the judiciary to uphold justice and the rule of law.
Denying the Allegations
The statement released by the Director of Press and Information at the apex court, Dr. Festus Akande, unequivocally states that there is no truth to the narrative of any telephone conversation between the CJN and either President Tinubu or the DSS Director-General.
The CJN asserts that these rumors are baseless and devoid of any factual basis.
Upholding Justice and the Rule of Law
The CJN’s statement emphasizes the importance of maintaining confidence in the judicial process and avoiding the proliferation of rumors and speculation.
It calls upon Nigerians to continue following the proceedings at the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal and to refrain from engaging in mudslinging and falsehoods.
The CJN underlines that the courts are established to serve the best interests of the masses and that justice will be done to all matters pending in various courts across the country, regardless of the parties involved.
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Cooperation with the Judiciary
The statement pleads with the public to cooperate with the judiciary in its efforts to serve the country to the best of its ability.
It emphasizes that no individual will be favored over another in any dispute, and the rule of law and the supremacy of the Nigerian Constitution will always be upheld.
The CJN reaffirms the commitment of the judiciary to apply the law and determine the merits of each case based on the presented facts and existing legal framework.
Conclusion
The Chief Justice of Nigeria, CJN, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, has come forward to refute the allegations of engaging in telephone conversations with President Bola Tinubu and the DSS Director-General to influence the judges handling the presidential election petitions.
Through an official statement, the CJN has dismissed these rumors as baseless and urged Nigerians to trust in the judicial process.
As a nation, it is essential to maintain confidence in the judiciary and refrain from spreading falsehoods and speculation.
The commitment of the courts to uphold justice and the rule of law remains steadfast, ensuring that all matters before them will be treated fairly and impartially.
