FORMER President Goodluck Jonathan has expressed concern over Nigeria’s escalating political crisis, attributing it to court rulings, which he claimed are “distorting the course of justice.”
Jonathan speaking at the 67th birthday celebration and the presentation of 50 books authored by prominent human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Professor Mike Ozekhome, also warned judges against being influenced by political manipulations.
During the event, which he co-chaired with former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Jonathan highlighted that recent court decisions on political issues have destabilized the nation, citing a case where a ward chairman was granted the power to expel a national party chairman.
He urged the Supreme Court to reconsider the ruling, emphasizing that such judgments endanger the country’s political stability.
While congratulating Ozekhome, Jonathan commended him as a remarkable individual with unique talents and knowledge capable of making a significant impact.
Meanwhile, Obasanjo hinted that he had much to say but suggested the timing was not yet right for a full disclosure.
He described Ozekhome as a man of exceptional conviction who advocates for profound social change.
Wole Olanipekun, a former chairman of the Body of Benchers, who reviewed Ozekhome’s 50 books, described him as a legal and political scholar, human rights advocate, and political commentator whose views span various topics.
Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi also commended Ozekhome, urging him to continue his efforts in building a better society.