CJN: A better Nigeria possible with agitation ― Coalition

A pro-democracy coalition, Coalition in Defense of Nigerian Democracy and Constitution (CDNDC) on Friday stated that a better Nigeria is possible through sustained meaningful agitations after weeks of pressure mounted by spirited Nigerians finally influenced the transmission of Justice Nkanu Onnoghen’s name to the Senate for confirmation as the substantive Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN).

The group also commended Vice President Yemi Osinbajo for hearing “loud and clear,” the agitations of the people over the CJN and for coming to the rescue of the nation at a critical time as the Acting President.

CDNDC in a statement signed by its Convener, Ariyo-Dare Atoye, added that, “through persistency for reforms and good governance, we can have a better nation that will work for the people. Apparently motivated by the nationwide agitation that made the presidency to cave in to pressure over the CJN matter, we are optimistic that the country could overcome the prejudices that have undermined its potential.

“We are appreciative of the selfless and patriotic roles played by eminent and concerned citizens to reach this fruitful point in the collective struggle to get the CJN confirmed. The struggle to overcome our fault lines, restructure Nigeria and engender good governance must now be pursued relentlessly with an abiding faith; we are optimistic that a better Nigeria is possible if we invest the same sense of patriotism we invested in the CJN matter.

“Let us put it on record that our agitation and commitment towards getting Justice Onnoghen confirmed has been done to preserve the unity and oneness of this country and to guarantee the equality of all Nigerians under the law,” the coalition stated.

According to CDNDC, “As a responsible body, we are now more encouraged and emboldened to pursue the cause and yearning of ordinary Nigerians, just as we did by participating in the I Stand With Nigeria protest,” said the Coalition.

The pro-democracy group however berated those it claimed had wrongly advised President Muhammadu Buhari against the transmission of Justice Onnoghen’s name in line with established traditions, expressing regret that they had “misled the President to unnecessarily agitate the country.

“We are happy that the Acting President rose to the occasion by doing what is responsive and responsible,” the coalition said, just as it tasked the Senate against “adding insult to injury,” in the process of confirmation,” it explained and tasked the executive to respect the independence of the judiciary, the sanctity of separation of power and to put an end to needless distractions in the system.

“We must never undermine the judiciary or allow anyone to do so, it is the hope of democracy,” It added.