Former President Goodluck Jonathan has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Nigerian judiciary to end the tradition of post-election lawsuits in the country.
Jonathan made this call during the inauguration of the multi-million-naira Delta State High Court Complex, recently completed by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. The former president also launched the presentation of 20 Toyota Prado Sports Utility Vehicles to the stateās judges. Jonathan praised Oborevworiās administration for completing projects initiated by previous administrations, noting that this High Court complex project is the third he has inaugurated in the state recently.
He emphasized the importance of equipping and providing the judiciary with top-notch facilities, which would enable them to deliver their best to the country. “I am glad to join the governor to commission this major project, this is the third project I have commissioned in Delta,” Jonathan said, referencing the State Government House and the Federal High Court Complex he inaugurated previously.
Jonathan highlighted that completing past administrationsā projects is crucial for the state’s growth and development. He recounted that the high court building project started in 1991 and commended the governor’s commitment to completing and inaugurating it.
Reflecting on a recent election observation mission in South Africa, Jonathan contrasted the post-election litigation culture in Nigeria with that of South Africa. He noted that in South Africa, it is unusual for election losers to go to court, whereas in Nigeria, it is common. Jonathan attributed this difference to the perception of the electoral management system and the judiciary’s role in Nigeria. He urged the Nigerian judiciary to be strong and uphold justice to reduce post-election litigation.
Governor Oborevwori, in his speech, lauded past governors for their roles in initiating and committing to the completion of the high court project, which began about 25 years ago. He emphasized his commitment to completing inherited projects and noted that the judiciary was the only arm of government without a befitting building. The presentation of 20 Toyota Prado SUVs to judges was a fulfillment of a promise made.
Oborevwori thanked Jonathan for inaugurating the project and described him as a great Nigerian patriot and statesman. The state’s Commissioner for Housing, Mr. Godknows Angele, detailed the building’s facilities, including five floors, six courtrooms, six conference halls, and other amenities designed to enhance the judiciary’s operations.
The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, represented by Justice Bolaji Yusuf, praised the state government for providing the magnificent edifice as a “temple of justice.” He expressed hope that other states would follow Delta State’s example. Chief Judge of Delta State, Justice Theresa Diai, also expressed gratitude for the modern facilities, noting that the internet facilities would enhance the judiciary’s service quality.