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Published on 2024-03-06 19:28:54
President Bola Tinubu, in his quest for power, made a promise to follow in the footsteps of his predecessor Muhammadu Buhari and not step on his toes. However, recent developments have shown that the current president is taking a different path from the former general turned politician, especially in some court cases.
The federal government has been on the losing end of at least two court cases initiated by the Buhari administration. One case was dismissed by the Supreme Court, while the other was withdrawn by the Tinubu-led government. The cases have raised questions about the legal strategy and efficacy of the respective administrations.
One of the cases involved the former Minister of Niger Delta, Godsday Orubebe, who was dragged to court by the Buhari government over an alleged breach of the Code of Conduct for Public Officers. After the court reversed Orubebe’s conviction, the Buhari administration filed an appeal, which was ultimately dismissed by the Supreme Court in February 2024, seven years after the initial conviction.
Orubebe gained notoriety for attempting to disrupt the collation of the 2015 presidential election results in Abuja, which ultimately led to the victory of Buhari over then-President Goodluck Jonathan. The legal battle with the Buhari government further added to his controversial reputation.
Another high-profile case initiated by the Buhari administration was against Omoyele Sowore, the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) in the 2023 election, and his ally Olawale Bakare. The treasonable charges against them sparked a prolonged legal battle that saw the Tinubu government eventually discontinuing the case.
Sowore’s call for revolution against the government following his defeat in the election marked the beginning of his legal troubles with the Buhari administration. The activist-politician’s arrest during court proceedings by the Department of State Services drew widespread condemnation for disrespecting the judiciary.
In an interview with Legit.ng, legal expert Okanlawon Gaffar praised the Attorney General of the Federation for acting in accordance with the constitution by discontinuing the case against Sowore. Gaffar highlighted the AGF’s authority to institute, take over, or discontinue legal matters before judgment or appeal, as outlined in the Nigerian constitution.
Recent reports comparing the number of days spent abroad by Tinubu and Buhari during their respective terms in office have also sparked debate. While Tinubu spent 71 days outside Nigeria in nine months, Buhari spent 59 days. The reasons for these travels, including investment deals and diplomatic missions, have been scrutinized by critics and supporters alike.
Overall, the legal battles and actions taken by the Tinubu-led government in these court cases have raised questions about the administration’s legal strategy and approach to governance. The implications of these developments on the political landscape and the rule of law in Nigeria remain to be seen as the country navigates its legal challenges and transitions in leadership.
Read the original article on Legit.ng
