Ebun Francis|
The British high commission has said it is concerned by the timing of the suspension of Walter Onnoghen as chief justice of Nigeria (CJN).
The commission in a statement on Saturday while acknowledging the sovereignty of Nigeria, however, said the action could affect perceptions about the elections.
According to the commission, the international community is monitoring developments in the country closely, as it urged stakeholders to work towards achieving free and fair elections.
The statement read, “The British High Commission expresses serious concern over the suspension of the Chief Justice of Nigeria. We have heard a wide range of credible and independent voices, including in the Nigerian legal profession and civil society, who have expressed concern over the constitutionality of the executive branch’s suspension of the chief officer of the judiciary.”
“We respect Nigeria’s sovereign authority and its right to adjudicate on constitutional provisions but as friends of the Nigerian people, we are compelled to observe that the timing of this action, so close to national elections, gives cause for concern. It risks affecting both domestic and international perceptions on the credibility of the forthcoming elections. We, along with other members of the international community, are following developments closely.
“We encourage all actors to maintain calm and address the concerns raised by this development through due process, demonstrating their commitment to respecting the constitution and the impartial administration of the rule of law. We further urge them to take steps to ensure that elections take place in an environment conducive to a free, fair and peaceful process.”
The European Union has also reacted to the suspension of Unoghen.
In a statement, EU which said it spoke out based on invitation to cover the election extended to it by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), equally expressed concern over the timing and process of the suspension of the former CJN.
The EU said, “The EU Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) is very concerned about the process and timing of the suspension of the Chief Justice of Nigeria. Honourable lustice Walter Onnoghen, on 25 January.”
“With 20 days until the presidential and National Assembly elections, political parties, candidates and voters must be able to have confidence in the impartiality and independence of the judicial system.
“The EU EOM calls on all parties to follow the legal processes provided for in the Constitution and to respond calmly to any concerns they may have.”