Nasarawa verdict: Don’t interfere, HURIWA tells Shettima

From Okwe Obi, Abuja

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), has implored Vice President Kashim Shettima, not to interfere in the outcome of Nasarawa State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal.

The Tribunal had nullified the victory of Governor Abdullahi Sule of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and affirmed David Ombugadu of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) as the authentic winner.

HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, in a statement yesterday, noted that religious coloration should not be infused in the outcome of the verdict.

Onwubiko, however, argued that the election result was a reflection of the collective will of Nasarawa State’s diverse population, which includes Christians, Muslims and traditionalists.

Also, he frowned at disturbing reports that the Abdullahi Sule’s camp was plotting to influence the Appeal Court and subsequently the Supreme Court in the event the case progresses to that level.

“These purported attempts involve reaching out to influential religious figures, including the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, and leveraging the influence of the Emir of Lafia, Sidi Bage, a former Supreme Court judge.

“Nasarawa State, known for its religious diversity, has a history of tolerance and unity among its people, regardless of religious backgrounds.

“The introduction of religious dimensions into a political matter in such a harmonious society is deeply troubling and could have severe repercussions,” he said.

In addition, he warned all stakeholders, including religious and traditional rulers, to refrain from interfering in the judicial process, and urged them to uphold the rule of law and permit the courts to make determinations based on the evidence presented before them.

“In a democratic society, the law should always take precedence over sentiments and religious biases.

“The importance of Nasarawa State receiving a transparent, equitable, and unbiased resolution to this election dispute, devoid of divisive elements, cannot be overemphasized.

“HURIWA stands unwavering in its commitment to safeguarding the rights of all Nigerians and ensuring that justice prevails without bias,” he said.