The Bureau had asked the CJN to appear before the Code of Conduct tribunal. Because of alleged non-declaration of assets.
The governors made the call after an emergency meeting in Abuja on Sunday.
“We call on the CJN to ignore this so-called Court summon from the CCB and the provocative call for his resignation in some quarters”. The governors said in a communique issued after the meeting.
“While we are not opposed to a genuine fight against corruption, such an action must always be anchored on the rule of law.”
The meeting was attended by the governors of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta and Rivers. While Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State, who is a member of the All Progressives Congress was absent.
Bayelsa State Governor, Mr Seriake Dickson, is the Chairman of the forum. Dickson summoned the emergency meeting on Saturday after the CCT announced that the CCB had filed six charges against the CJN. And with the trial scheduled to start on Monday.
In the communique, which was read by Governor Dickson after the meeting, the governors said the move by the CCB was unacceptable.
Nevertheless, they argued that the legal procedures for investigating allegations of misconduct against judicial officials were not followed. As a result of that they accused the executive of targeting other arms of government.
“South South governors note that the attempt to drag the CJN to the CCT is also a grave and dangerous escalation of the assault. Assault on institutions of state including the National Assembly and judiciary,” they said.
To them, the move is reflective “of the South-South story of endless marginalization and intimidation”.
“The unceremonious removal of former Acting Director General of the Department of State Service, Mathew Seiyefa. And his replacement is still very fresh,” they added.
“We note that the unfortunate action against the CJN further reinforces the perception that the Buhari administration has no regard for the sentiments of Nigerians, in particular. And the people of Niger Delta, and the rule of law.”
ENOUGH OF YOUR HIGH HANDEDNESS!! The Battle Line Is Drawn As South South Governors Dare Buhari, Tell Onnoghen Not To Honour Code of Conduct Tribunal Summon
What are your thoughts on this story? Have the South South Governors made the right move? Kindly let us know in the comment section below.
Source: dailyadvent.com
