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From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
As the Supreme Court prepares to deliver judgement on the March 18th, 2023 governorship election in Nasarawa state, women from the state have appealed to the apex court to remain independent of external pressures and influence while delivering its judgements.
The group of women, representing various organizations and civil society groups, made the demand during a peaceful protest in Abuja, on Thursday, where they raised placards with inscriptions such as “Justice Uninfluenced is Justice Served” and “Supreme Court of Justice our hope of survival. Save us!”.
Lydia Cletus Auta, one of the coordinators of the women, said the people of Nasarawa state came out en masse to cast their vote for David Ombugadu, during the election, adding that any judgment away from whom they voted for will not be accepted.
She urged the judiciary not to be blackmailed by the use of religion, stressing the need for fairness and justice. “We came with heavy hearts, urging and entreating every individual who values the principles of justice and fairness, to lend their voices in safeguarding the sanctity of the judicial process.
“It is imperative that the upcoming Supreme Court verdict be devoid of any external pressures or undue influence. The decision rendered by the highest court in the land should reflect an impartial and unbiased examination of the facts and evidence presented before it
“We reiterate that our protest has always been peaceful, borne out of our unyielding belief in the power of peaceful, civic engagement as a means to address societal grievances. We have abided by the laws of our land and exercised our constitutional rights in a manner required of responsible citizens.
“We humbly call on all fellow citizens to maintain a peaceful and respectful demeanor as we await the unfolding of events in the legal arena. Additionally, we urge the authorities to ensure transparency and openness in the handling of the case and the subsequent release of the verdict reflecting popular vote.
“People of Nasarawa state and the entire nation deserve to witness a legal process that is conducted with absolute integrity and transparency, free from any hint of impropriety or bias. Our mandate was stolen from us, and we refused to let it go unchallenged.
“We call on Nigerians to examine the evidence and see why we are so steadfast in our demand for justice. The reports from INEC clearly show why we cannot compromise or back down. We are not just protesting for ourselves. We represent widows, orphans, and vulnerable women who have suffered greatly in our society. We stand for all the women who have been silenced and oppressed. Our fight is their fight, and we will not stop until justice is served.
“It is time for the Supreme Court to show that it is truly the last hope of the common man. We urge the Justices of the Supreme Court to resist any form of external pressure and to make their decision based on the merits of our case.
“We sincerely hope that our unwavering determination and commitment to the cause of justice will pave the way for a future where the voices of ordinary citizens-especially women will be heard and respected in the democratic process.”
