By Ibrahim Kegbegbe.
In a press conference held yesterday, Monday, 25th March 2024, at the National Headquarters in Abuja, the Acting National Chairman of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Abba Kawu Ali, expressed grave concerns over what he termed as attempts to undermine the integrity of the judiciary in Ogun State. Addressing members of the press, Ali highlighted the alleged efforts by Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, to interfere with the judicial process, potentially leading to anarchy within the state.
“We want to draw the attention of Nigerians and indeed the whole world to the ongoing efforts by the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, to desecrate the temple of Justice which has the consequences of engendering anarchy, which Nigeria can ill afford now,” stated Ali during the conference.
The NNPP chairman shed light on a series of events involving the expulsion of their former chairman in Ogun State, Comrade Sunday Olaposi Ogini, and subsequent actions taken by both parties. Ali detailed how NNPP officials, accompanied by police personnel, attempted to take possession of the party’s state office following Ogini’s expulsion. However, he noted a dramatic turn of events as Ogini reported a case of “stealing” to the police, accusing NNPP officers of burgling his office and making away with a significant sum of money.
“Did they enter the office illegally? Could they have ‘stolen’ the money in the presence of the policemen?” questioned Ali, highlighting the inconsistencies in Ogini’s allegations. He further raised concerns about the presence of a large sum of cash in Ogini’s office, questioning its legality and compliance with anti-money laundering laws.
The NNPP emphasized its commitment to the rule of law and called on Governor Dapo Abiodun to refrain from interfering in judicial proceedings. “We are using this medium to advise Governor Dapo Abiodun to leave the Ogun State judiciary to work without undue interference to be able to dispense justice without fear or favour,” urged Ali.
Acknowledging Ogun State’s historical significance and the role of its judiciary in upholding integrity, Ali urged the judiciary to maintain its independence and integrity. He emphasized the importance of the conference by calling for transparency and adherence to constitutional principles in the resolution of the ongoing dispute.
The allegations raised by the NNPP have sparked concerns regarding the impartiality of the judiciary and the potential ramifications of political interference in legal proceedings. As the situation unfolds, stakeholders await further developments and hope for a resolution that upholds the rule of law and preserves the integrity of the justice system.
TAG: NNPP, Abiodun, Judiciary