Connect with us

Opinion

IN DEFENCE OF THE DEFENSELESS JUDGES WHO ARE DOING THEIR JOB ACCORDING TO THE DICTATES OF THEIR CONSCIENCE

Published

on

By Achi. William-Wobodo

Being a judge, is a tough personal call to make. It is a highly demanding and ethical job to do, which makes a judge vulnerable and prone to bullying. A judge is trained to rise up in defence of the defenseless, yet he cannot defend himself. The rot in our society has made the job even more hazardous.

For every judgement that does not go in the way of public opinion and expectation, the judge is blamed and accused of corruption. This is unpatriotic. Judges are not employed to pander to public opinion. I am not in anyway suggesting that there are no corrupt judges in the system, but I honestly believe that the incorrupt ones are much more than the corrupt ones.

As we know it, Nigeria operates an adversarial legal system, which means that the parties are responsible for providing evidence upon which the court predicates its judgement. This is different from the inquisitorial system where the Court gets involved in the investigation of the facts of a case. Our legal system forbids a judge from applying extraneous facts in the determination of a case, except those brought before it by the parties in accordance with the law of evidence. In others words, even if a judge witnesses an event, he cannot apply his eye-witness account/evidence in his determination of the case. At best, he may recuse himself from such a case.

Advertisement

In the last few months, on account of THE POLITICAL CRISIS IN RIVERS STATE, Judges of the Federal High Court, especially, have come under serious public attacks and aspirations from some misinformed members of the public and MISCHIEVOUS LAWYERS, some of whom are either ignorant of courtroom practices and procedures or are indulging in clout chasing ventures. It is even more reprehensible and shameful when lawyers, who ought to have known better, are the ones indulging in such unethical and unprofessional conducts. These lawyers know that JUDGES HAVE NO RIGHT OF PUBLIC REPLY, yet they chose to castigate and cast aspersions on them; Most times, based on unsubstantiated allegations.

It is AN ACT OF COWARDICE TO CONTINUOUSLY ATTACK A DEFENSELESS PERSON.

LET ME EVEN CONSIDER TWO SCENARIOS FROM RIVERS STATE AS EXAMPLES.

In the wake of the crisis now rocking the Rivers State Government, between the Executive arm (the Governor) and Legislature arm; over the “alleged division” in the Rivers House of Assembly (RSHA) at the time. The Speaker of the RSHA (Rt. Hon. Martins Amaehwule) and the RSHA itself approached the Federal High Court for the determination of several questions, including: whether or not the “ALLEGED CRISIS/DIVISION IN RSHA” had crystallized to the point that the National Assembly (NASS) can takeover the functions of the RSHA pursuant to SECTION 11(4) of the 1999 Constitution, whether there was division in the RSHA, who was the authentic Speaker of the RSHA, etc.

Advertisement

Based upon which Rt.Hon. Amaehwule and the RSHA asked for declarations that Rt.Amehwule is the authentic Speaker of RSHA, that the crisis in RSHA did not warrant the NASS to takeover the functions of the RSHA, that the RSHA is entitled and empowered to make Appropriation Laws for Rivers State, including 2024 Appropriation Law, etc. Most of the Defendants in the case put up nominal appearance and defence in the matter, EXCEPT FOR the Governor of Rivers State and Rt. Hon. Edison Ehie (factional speaker at the time) who put up contest in the case.

Before or on the day fixed for the hearing of the case, Mr. Governor through his Counsel withdrew his Counter Affidavit/Defence (for reasons best known to the Governor and of course he is entitled to) and his Defence to the case was accordingly struck out. In same vein, Rt. Hon. Edison Ehie not only withdrew his own Counter Affidavit/Defence to the case, he presented a letter indicating his resignation as a Member of the RSHA. In other words, he also affirmed to the Court that he has lost his right, if any, to the claim of Speakership of the RSHA.

Invariably, there was NO CONTENDING DEFENCE to the case of Rt. Hon. Amaehwule and the RSHA. Justice Omotosho reviewed the evidence before him, which were DEEMED UNCHALLENGED and then reached conclusions and entered judgement for Rt.Hon. Amaehwule and RSHA to the effect that THERE WAS (IS) NO DIVISION in the RSHA, that Rt.Hon Amaehwule is the AUTHENTIC SPEAKER of the RSHA, that the RSHA led by Rt.Hon. Amaehwule is the rightful RSHA to make Appropriation Laws for Rivers State, that the Governor should present the 2024 Appropriation Bill before the appropriate RSHA.

It is important to mention that one of the issues raised by the Governor in his withdrawn Defence/Preliminary Objection was the fact that no Pre-Action Notice was served on the NASS before the action was commenced. Yes, the issue was jurisdictional in nature, but it a PROCEDURAL JURISDICTION ISSUE, not a substantive jurisdiction issue. The law is settled that a procedural jurisdiction question touching on non-service of pre-action notice can only be raised by the person directly affected, in that case NASS. The reason is because, the party concerned has an option to waive the right and proceed to defend the case against him without objection. The NASS took part in defense of the case.

Advertisement

In any case, the Governor withdrew his objection.

I have asked all those who fault the decision of Hon. Justice Omotosho in the media to point a finger to a fault, either in procedure or decision, in the judgement and I am yet to see o finger. Assuming anyone still had doubts about that judgement, the Court of Appeal had cleared the doubt.

The Governor who submitted to judgement by withdrawing his defence refused to obey the same judgement.

Not surprisingly, the Governor who in law is DEEMED TO HAVE CONSENTED TO THE CASE of Rt. Hon Martins Amaehwule before the Federal High Court, went to the Court of Appeal to challenge a JUDGEMENT OF FHC DEEMED TO HAVE BEEN ENTERED BY “HIS CONSENT”, WITHOUT THE LEAVE OF COURT to so do, contrary to SECTION 241(2)(c) of the 1999 CONSTITUTION and decided cases: See: ABDULKARIM VS. INCAR (NIG) LTD, (1992) LPELR-26(SC) (Pg.23-24, para D-A). The Governor also challenged the procedural jurisdiction of the Federal High Court predicated on non-service of pre-action notice on the NASS, a personal right of the NASS which was waived by the NASS by participating in the case without objection.

Advertisement

The Court of Appeal dismissed the appeal for lacking in merit, and the Court is blamed; it is corrupt.

ANOTHER CASE: All People’s Party (APP) filed an action before the Federal High Court seeking a declaration that Rt. Hon. Amaehwule and 26 others have lost their seat. The APP commenced the action through an ORIGINATING SUMMONS, which is a procedure used for determination of non-contentious and non-hostile facts. Perhaps, the APP and its lawyers had expected an easy sail from Rt.Hon. Amaehwule and members of the RSHA. They are used to defection cases where the Defendants would say, “yes we defected because our party has dispute or division”: and then the court is called upon to interpret the admitted facts vis-a-vis the law.

They had expected Rt. Hon. Amaehwule and co to say we defected. Unfortunately, they met an unanticipated shocker, a brick wall; Rt.Hon. Amaehwule and co stated that they did not defect. A case which APP and it’s lawyers had thought would be heard based on non-contentious facts, had automatically become contentious and hostile by that singular denial.

The APP and it’s lawyers had three (3) options open to them by that material denial: (1) withdraw the case and file a fresh suit via Writ of Summons, (2) apply to the Court to order the parties to file pleadings, which would allow them to call oral evidence to prove the allegation of defection or (3) continue the case in its form with ruptured foundation and foreseeable pitfalls. They opted for number (3) and proceeded with their Originating Summons, then filed FURTHER AFFIDAVIT to which they ATTACHED A FLASH DRIVE that “allegedly” contained video clip of a certain defection.

Advertisement

The questions and challenges then arose: how and where does the court watch or see the content of the flash drive? ls it while in his chambers writing the judgement? If there is anything that needs clarification from the flash, who does he turn to in his chambers? Would he call the APP or its lawyers for explanation?

On realizing the procedural error, the APP still had an option of applying to that Court to convert the case by filing pleadings and to call oral evidence in order to resolve the allegation of defection, they did not. Rather, they pushed on with yet another and graver procedural error. The APP decided to play the video in the flash drive in open court, WITHOUT ANY WITNESS TO DEMONSTRATE THE VIDEO, TO IDENTIFY THOSE IN THE VIDEO OR WHERE THE “MOVIE” WAS SHOT, OR TO IDENTIFY THE MAKER OF THE MOVIE (VIDEO) (the CONTENT CREATOR). They pushed the procedural comedy and errors to a finish and left.

The the Judge was expected to perform a miracle, regularize the errors and grant them judgement.

Anyways, based on settled position of the law as decided by the apex Court, the Federal High Court Judge had no difficulties trashing and discarding the flash and its content as a piece of document dumped on the court. With that trashy piece of evidence made worthless by the inadvertence of counsel off the way, the Court was left with reviewing any other means of proof of membership of the said RSHA members, which should include, either APC membership register, PDP membership register, letter of resignation, etc. Unfortunately, these evidence were not before the Federal High Court. The Court therefore had no difficulty in reaching a finding that the APP did not prove defection.

Advertisement

As we now know, a judge, based on our adversarial legal system, cannot apply his residual knowledge of or any extraneous facts, not duly presented before him in accordance with the Law of Evidence, in the determination of any case before him. So, it remains immaterial if the judge’s wife was a camera person who made the “alleged” video or that the judge himself was in the chambers of RSHA on such a day or that he read or saw on news media any of the facts in contention. The law is that such facts MUST NOT ONLY BE BROUGHT BEFORE THE COURT, BUT ALSO IN LINE WITH THE EVIDENCE ACT, otherwise the judge cannot rely on them.

Sadly, we do not see the public blame lawyers, who either by inadvertence, overconfidence, indiscretion, desire for speedy trial, etc, destroy a hitherto actionable and legitimate cause of action and eventually their clients’ case. All we see are aspersions on Judges.

If non-lawyers feign ignorance of the workings of the Court, it may be justified and pardonable; but should same go for lawyers, who should haven better. Every lawyer knows when he has made a mistake in the prosecution of case, he is human who is prone to errors. If he is not courageous enough to own his mistakes, he should at least be honourable enough to keep quiet and not pass his blame by alleging corruption against the Judge.

It is a moral issue for both the lawyers and the litigants who cast aspersions on the courts. For instance, In 2023, the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division and the Supreme Court of Nigeria affirmed the Governor of Rivers State as the duly elected governor of Rivers States, the Governor organized thanksgivings, where he eulogized the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court Justices as men of honour and integrity. Those who lost took it in good faith and obeyed the orders of Courts.

Advertisement

At that time, no one heard the Governor make any insinuations of corruption against these courts. Few months afterwards, the Governor was ordered to present Rivers State Appropriation Bill to the RSHA recognized by the same Court that had recognized the Governor few months earlier, and what we now hear from SAME Governor who eulogized SAME Courts are insinuations of corruption against the courts. It seems hypocritical to me.

Litigants and lawyers must stop this act of casting aspersions on judges simply because the judges are not allowed by the ethics of their job to react. Should any one have proof of corruption against a judge, let him seek redress lawfully rather the public opprobrium. And for lawyers, whom I believe to be legal scholars in the college of continuing legal education, if anyone strongly feels that a decision of a court is wrong in law, and he cannot resort to appeal because he is not counsel in the matter, then such a lawyer can do a legal essay to query/critic decision based on acceptable legal review mechanisms, not by deploying blackmail and defamation.

Judges are human, they also have feelings and emotions which are bruised by these aspersions.

Please, SAY NO TO SOCIAL MEDIA BLACKMAIL, BULLYING, IRRITATION, ASPERSIONS on judges doing their legitimate jobs according to the dictates of their conscience. If they err or are corrupt, seek legitimate redress.

Advertisement

Achi. William-Wobodo
Lawyer writing from Port Harcourt

Continue Reading
Advertisement
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Opinion

CELEBRATING A PRODIGIOUS WORDSMITH: TUNDE OLUSUNLE @ SIXTY

Published

on

By

BY BOLAJI AFOLABI

Poring over countless title-ideas for this article, the above emerged from the blues. Further checks about the subject confirmed the title as fit and proper. Describing Tunde Olusunle as a “prodigious wordsmith” is no exaggeration. In every of his work, he comes across as one who has vocabulary virtuosity, and endowed with narrative mastery. He displays unimaginable linguistic dexterity which is  intertwined with rhetorical flair, and imbued with creative vision. He carves the right words, and descriptive styles to paint beautiful scenery of complex and cumbersome situations. He crafts, engages, and suspends readers till the last words are happily soaked in. So, the title is both deliberate and intentional.

Dr. Tunde Olusunle, an Adjunct Professor of Creative Writing at the University of Abuja; which was recently re-named Yakubu Gowon University, is a man of many parts. He is a celebrated journalist; author; poet; communicator; and public speaker. Thus, he fits into all the fields where intellect, elucidation, and erudition coalesce. As a Columnist and Editor, he rose to the top of Journalism. In Literature, aside from having degrees, he has many published (and yet to be published) poems. He has written, co-written, edited, and co-edited over a dozen books; earning the Fellowship of the Association of Nigerian Authors, (FANA). In the last few years in academia, he is making exceptional accomplishments as a scholar, teacher, and researcher nurturing and mentoring a new generation of creative writers.

Sometime in the ’90s; during the Late General Sani Abacha regime, the writer went to the Saka Tinubu, Victoria Island, Lagos office of an elder brother; Ade-Ralph Olamife. After late lunch  at the classy canteen within the precincts of the Nigeria Telecommunications Limited, (NITEL) offices, the host extended an invitation. He said, “I want you to join me later today to meet a friend coming from Ikeja.” About 7 pm, we (Olamife, two other friends, and the writer) drove into Bishop Oluwole Street in Victoria Island, Lagos. The building was the Kogi state Liaison Office at that time. Surprisingly,  the august friend, who came with another person was already seated. After the exchange of pleasantries, the subject of this article was introduced by Olamife. Olusunle, who came with Alhaji Hakeem Bello; later Media Adviser to Babatunde Raji Fashola, (SAN), interacted freely with everyone. During the over two hours sit-out, Olusunle came across as a witty, lively, intelligent, and brilliant personality.

Advertisement

After this first meeting, the writer; through Olamife had subsequent interactions with Olusunle in Ikeja, Maryland, Ikoyi, and Victoria Island areas of Lagos. On every occasion, he exudes confidence and accessibility just as his humble and humane attributes come alive. After over a year of gap, largely due to the analogue communication state, and his relocation out of Lagos, Olamife broke the cheering news of Olusunle’s appointment as the Chief Press Secretary to the Kogi state Military Administrator; Col. Paul Omeruo. A few months later, the writer accompanied (as usual) Olamife; to visit Omeruo in Lokoja. By the way, both Olusunle and Olamife are mutual friends to the Administrator, fondly referred to as PUNO; initials of his names. During the two-week visit, Olusunle was the perfect host; he made every evening eventful and memorable. From discussions, many civil servants spoke glowingly about him. In and around the Lugard House; Administrator’s residence and office, as well as Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, (MDAs), his interpersonal relationships were eulogized. Succinctly, he could be described as a people’s man.

With the birth of democracy in May 1999, and the inauguration of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo as the President and Commander in Chief of Nigeria, the writer partially relocated to Abuja, hoping to explore opportunities in the new government. Watching the Nigerian Television Authority’s flagship news, the advert inviting people to the official launch of the new administration’s “Campaign for National Rebirth” sounded interesting. The writer made his way to the purposely-built Eagle Square venue of the event. As the programme progressed, the presence and importance of Olusunle was very evident. Events over, the writer swiftly moved from the stands down the platform to offer salutations to him. Pushed, shoved aside by over-zealous security operatives, it was a herculean task. At the point of giving up, an incident happened which diverted the attention of almost everyone. Leveraging on this, the writer made his way to the dais. Standing before Olusunle, he called the writer’s name, hugged, and exchanged pleasantries. Quickly, he said, “I’ll be out of Abuja for one week, meet me at Sheraton Hotels next week please.”

The writer’s visit to Sheraton Hotels marked the beginning of a relationship that has grown in leaps and bounds. Either at the Hotel’s Papillon Restaurant or the Poolside Bar, and Nicon Noga (now Transcorp) Hilton Hotel, the compassionate, empathetic, and accommodating attributes of Olusunle always come to the fore. They were unmistakable and unequivocal. During one of the numerous visits, he requested for the writer’s curriculum vitae; without saying what he wanted to do with it? It was discovered, early that he loves working behind the scenes. Beneficiaries of his advocacy, and benevolence only get to know when “food don done for eating.” One recalls on a visit to his 7th floor, Sheraton Hotels “temporary official residence” he beckoned on the writer to accompany him to somewhere. In a few minutes, we were in one of the suites at the Hilton Hotel, only to see Chief Onyema Ugochukwu, emeritus journalist, and public administrator walked in. With shock, suspense, and excitement written on one’s face, Olusunle introduced the writer saying, “Oga, this is one of our younger but silent supporters.”

A few months later, the import of that visit came to light. Through the persistent advocacy, and resilient prodding of Ugochukwu and Olusunle, President Obasanjo gave approval for major recruitments to strengthen the rebirth campaign, and public affairs management of the new government. So, the writer and other people benefitted from a forward-thinking proposal that was primarily targeted at media professionals who were part of the Obasanjo presidential campaign organization. Pastor Tumo Ojelabi, a retired Federal Director who was one of the beneficiaries declared that, “Oga, is a fastidious personality, a determined helper who can be positively stubborn, and dogged when pursuing a course that he has strong conviction about.” Continuing, Ojelabi, who was the official Photographer to Obasanjo during the presidential campaign said, “but for his resilience, courage, and never-quiver spirit; and Oga Ugochukwu, many of us who toiled during the campaigns would have been left dry.” For Mr. Taiwo Akinyemi, who was Obasanjo’s campaign Official Videographer, “Olusunle is a fighter; a dynamic fighter for other people. When he realized that politicians who did not contribute much to Baba’s electoral success were getting their loyalists into the new government, he fought relentlessly for us all. God used him to get me employed in the federal civil service, I remain eternally grateful.”

Advertisement

Olusunle is a pan-Nigerian, totally detribalized, and not given to ethnicity, religious segregation and similar stereotype. Described by close friends as diligent, dedicated, and devoted to friendship, Olusunle remains a restless and tireless quester for knowledge and new challenges. Given his multi-dimensional, and multi-tasking skills and proficiencies, he can excel in whatever profession, assignment, and position. Energized by his voracious search for new ideas, he is almost, always thinking out of the box. Very ingenious, creative, and imaginative, one recalls few initiatives that came from his fertile mind during the Obasanjo presidency. Persistent encouraging words about Nigeria’s sports which led to the inclusion of the “sports brief” to his schedules. Advocacy for the hosting of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, (CHOGM) at any of the nation’s resorts; which informed him leading a team of journalists, tourism experts, and bureaucrats to the Yankari Games Reserves in Bauchi. What about the National Media Tour, though initiated by him but hijacked by a few top government officials who at the end muddled the entire programme?

Corroborating, Mr. Vincent Oyefeso, a retired Federal Director, and another beneficiary of the Obasanjo appointments approval, said, “he is an illustrious Nigerian and a patriot per excellence, who bestrides many walks of life as an intellectual collossus, a humanist of no mean hue, and an advocate of the finest social ethos. At the realms of public communications, the academia, and public service, he exudes the best practices worthy of emulation by right-thinking compatriots.” For Mr. Ukadike Uwabor, a media communications consultant, “since I’ve known him, he has remained consistent with the core values of excellence, versatility, and intellect. He relates perfectly with different people no matter the age, religion, tribe, or social status. Little wonder his friends cut across different strata of the society. That the people of Umukabia autonomous community in Abia state conferred on him a chieftaincy title; which is outside his geographical, ethnic, and linguistic zone speaks volumes about his personality.” Olusunle by the way, has few other titles bestowed on him in different parts of the country.

Agreed, no human being is perfect but the writer has personal experiences about Olusunle that remains nostalgic. Indeed, the over two decades relationships have grown from one stage to the other. From boss to teacher, mentor, and motivator. He has played (and continues to play) different roles in one’s professional development, and career progression. Perhaps, he may not realize this; while working with him, Olusunle doesn’t attend meetings alone. The writer, Late Alhaji Wasiu Anjous, and (on few occasions) Akinyemi accompanied him to any meeting, particularly with MDAs. Another striking feature was that he introduced you as a “colleague.” With that, one’s stock, respect, and recognition increases. One of the fall-out of such remarkable style happened at the 2004 Olympics Games in  Greece, when Late Mr. Solomon Matankari, Nigeria’s Chef de Mission, and Sports Ministry’s Permanent Secretary insisted on the participation of Anjous and the writer in  high-level meetings.

Not persuaded by the hierarchical structure of the civil service, Olusunle places premium on availability, delivery, and consistency. Just a few months after being deployed to his office, the writer had a baptism of fire. Barely 48 hours after one of the regular presidential chats, Olusunle passed the recorded tape, and declared, “do transcribe and deliver in three days.” Sensing shock, and surprise, he encouraged, “you can do it, go at your pace.” On another occasion, a few days after commending the writer on a piece, “From Saw Dust To The Skies,” he said, “write a speech for Dr. Mrs. Kema Chikwe, the Aviation Minister, for a programme this Saturday to be held in Garki, Abuja.” Though tough but exciting, it marked my entry into the exclusive class of speech writers; till this moment. Sometime in 2023; after long hiatus from opinion writing, due to a new assignment at the National Assembly, the writer did a piece. Impressed, Olusunle called immediately, “BJ, I’ve just read your brilliant article. I encourage you to make this more regular, please. I’m available to offer any support where and when necessary.” Truly, he has kept faith to his promise in the over thirty articles written between December 2023 and now.

Advertisement

This is the man we are celebrating today, and always. Olusunle is an extremely organized personality, whose writings and interventions are laced with irrefutable data, educative instances, and inspiring suggestions. When occasions demands, you can’t help but applaud his depth of knowledge, information reservoir, deep vistas, and un-ending capacity. Oyefeso prays that, “the Lord grants him peace as he steps into the sixth floor. The Father of Lights will continually uphold and uplift him from Glory to Glory in Jesus Name.” Mr. Jacob Zwings, aide to Director-General, National Orientation Agency added that, “Oga Tunde, in his own way has impacted positively on the lives of people. On the occasion of his Diamond jubilee, I pray that God will perfect everything that concerns him and his family.” Akinyemi declared that, “just as he has been a blessing to other people’s children, God will bless him, his wife, and children.” Uwabor believes that, “Enyi Oha has become a reference point to many people. The good Lord will grant him more years in good health as he age gracefully with abundance of all-round blessings.” Ojelabi affirmed that, “Olusunle is who he is today; an accomplished man who stands tall among his peers because of his commitment towards extending helping hands to those who needs it.”

* BOLAJI AFOLABI, a Development Communications specialist was with the Office of Public Affairs, The Presidency, Abuja.

Continue Reading

Opinion

PROFESSOR HUMPHREY NWOSU: THE UNSUNG HERO OF TRUE NIGERIAN DEMOCRACY

Published

on

By

Written by Dr. Nwambu Gabriel,Director General, Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness

Introduction

The journey to democratic governance in Nigeria has been fraught with challenges, conflicts, and untold sacrifices. Among the gallant figures who stood resilient in the face of adversity was Professor Humphrey Nwosu. As we mourn the loss of a remarkable leader and an indomitable champion of democracy, we reflect on his contributions and unwavering commitment to the electoral process, which laid a foundational path for Nigeria’s democratic practice.

A Visionary Electoral Leader

Advertisement

Professor Nwosu’s tenure as Chairman of Nigeria’s National Electoral Commission (NEC) from 1989 to 1993 marked a pivotal era in the nation’s electoral history. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Nwosu approached his responsibilities with an unwavering resolve to uphold the sanctity of the electoral process. He successfully organized several elections, including Local Government Chairmanship, Governorship, and State and National Assembly elections, which were lauded for their transparency and fairness. His most significant achievement came with the conduct of the June 12, 1993, presidential elections, widely regarded as one of the freest and fairest elections in Nigeria’s history.

Courageous Stand Against Adversity

In an environment characterized by military interference and political manipulation, Nwosu exemplified courage. He boldly overturned a court order issued on June 10, 1993, that sought to halt the presidential elections. Despite facing intense pressure from the military establishment led by Ibrahim Babangida (IBB), he remained resolute, emphasizing his commitment to ensuring that the elections were conducted as planned. His insistence on completing his mandate, even when his commission was dissolved midway through the electoral process, is a testament to his integrity and dedication.

His unyielding stance culminated in the announcement of results from 29 out of 30 states in the June 12 elections. Although General Ibrahim Babangida annulled the elections before Nwosu could declare the final results, his steadfastness demonstrated his belief in the democratic process and the necessity of honoring the voice of the Nigerian electorate.

Advertisement

Championing Democracy Through Documentation

Professor Nwosu did not allow the annulment of the June 12 elections to silence his voice. In his book, *Laying the Foundation of Nigeria’s Democracy: My Account of June 12, 1993 Presidential Election and Its Annulment*, he chronicled the events leading to the election and its aftermath. By publishing the results of the June 12 elections, he presented irrefutable evidence of MKO Abiola’s victory, reinforcing the notion that the people’s will should prevail over political machinations. This documentation serves as a historical account of a significant moment in Nigeria’s struggle for democracy and a rallying cry for future generations.

Legacy of Integrity

As we reflect on Professor Nwosu’s life and contributions, it is essential to recognize his legacy of integrity, bravery, and unwavering commitment to democratic principles. He stood as a beacon of hope during a tumultuous period in Nigerian history, proving that one individual’s resolute stand could indeed lead to monumental change. His story serves as an inspiration to current and future leaders to prioritize the will of the people over personal or political gain.

Advertisement

Conclusion

The passing of Professor Humphrey Nwosu is not just a loss to his family and friends but to a nation that desperately needs champions of democracy. His actions during the critical moments of June 12, 1993, solidified his place in history as a true man of democracy. As we commemorate his life, we are reminded that democracy thrives through the courage and integrity of individuals like Professor Nwosu—those who are willing to stand firm against oppression and ensure that the voice of the people is heard.

May his soul rest in peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire generations to uphold the values of democracy, transparency, and justice in Nigeria.

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Opinion

Hon. (Dr.) Saheed Mosadoluwa: A Beacon of Visionary Leadership

Published

on

In an era where effective leadership is more crucial than ever, Hon. (Dr.) Saheed Mosadoluwa stands out as a beacon of visionary leadership. His approach transcends traditional governance, embodying a blend of innovation, empathy, and strategic foresight that inspires those around him and fosters community growth.

Pioneering Change Through Vision

Dr. Mosadoluwa’s leadership is characterized by a clear, forward-thinking vision. His ability to foresee challenges and opportunities allows him to craft policies that not only address current issues but also lay the groundwork for a prosperous future. He understands that visionary leadership is not just about having a great idea; it is about mobilizing resources, people, and initiatives to turn ideas into reality.

Empathy and Inclusivity at the Core

Advertisement

At the heart of his leadership philosophy is a deep sense of empathy. Dr. Mosadoluwa believes that true leadership involves listening to the voices of the people and prioritizing their needs. He fosters an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued, ensuring that every stakeholder feels heard and respected. This commitment to inclusivity not only strengthens community ties but also enhances the effectiveness of governance.

Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Development

Dr. Mosadoluwa recognizes the complexities of today’s challenges and approaches them with innovative, sustainable solutions. He champions initiatives that leverage technology, education, and sustainable practices to drive development. His focus on smart, sustainable urban planning and community-driven projects demonstrates his commitment to fostering resilient communities that can thrive in the face of adversity.

Empowering Future Leaders

Advertisement

As a visionary leader, Dr. Mosadoluwa is dedicated to empowerment. He actively mentors the next generation of leaders, believing that true leadership involves creating opportunities for others to grow. Through workshops, seminars, and community engagement initiatives, he inspires young minds to develop their leadership potential and become active participants in shaping their futures.

Commitment to Transparency and Accountability

Honesty and integrity are cornerstones of Dr. Mosadoluwa’s leadership. He believes that transparent governance builds trust within the community. By promoting open communication and accountability, he sets a standard for ethical leadership, ensuring that decisions are made in the best interest of the community.

Conclusion

Advertisement

Hon. (Dr.) Saheed Mosadoluwa is more than just a leader—he is a visionary. Through his innovative strategies, empathetic approach, and commitment to inclusivity, he is redefining the true definition of what Leadership. As he continues to inspire and enact positive change, Dr. Mosadoluwa remains dedicated to building a better future for all, proving that with visionary leadership, anything is possible.

Continue Reading

Trending

Copyright © 2024 Naija Blitz News