Swearing-In Controversy: Acting CJN Walter Onnoghen Makes First Statement

Onnoghen

The Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Walter Onnoghen has dissociated himself and his office from the ultimatum handed President  Muhammadu Buhari to recommend him to the Senate for confirmation.


There has been a big row over what is seen in some circles as the President’s delay in recommending Justice Onnoghen as CJN.

Justice Onnoghen, in a statement  titled: “Appointment of CJN: A plea for caution”, yesterday called on all to allow the President a free hand to do his job.

He noted, in the statement issued by his media aide, Awassam Bassey, that since his time within which to act as the CJN has not lapsed, the apprehension in certain quarters about his fate was unnecessary.

The statement reads: “The Honourable Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria, wishes to appeal to Nigerians to allow Mr. President, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, a free hand to perform his constitutional duties concerning the appointment of a substantive Chief Justice of Nigeria.

“Honourable Justice Onnoghen believes the President does not need any threat or ultimatum to perform his constitutional duties and therefore dissociates himself from those individuals and groups making such demands on the President.

“However, the Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria and the Nigerian Judiciary sincerely appreciate the interest of Nigerians towards the appointment of a substantive Chief Justice of Nigeria to oversee the affairs of the Judiciary as the third arm of government, but believe that issuing an ultimatum to Mr. President appears to be going too far and smacks of disrespect for the exalted office of the president.

“The Acting Chief Justice therefore appeals for caution on the issue of the appointment of Chief Justice of Nigeria as Mr President goes about his constitutional duties, especially considering the fact that the given time for him to act as Chief Justice of Nigeria has not expired.

“In conclusion, the Acting Chief Justice wishes to thank all Nigerians for their support and continued prayers while calling on them to back the Federal Government in the fight to make the country a better place for all.”