Obasanjo expresses dismay over court rulings against elected officials

Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has raised concerns about the authority of a small number of judges to overturn decisions made by millions of voters during elections, labeling it as “completely unacceptable.”

Obasanjo voiced his disapproval during the ongoing judgements of the Court of Appeal on electoral disputes stemming from the 2023 elections in Nigeria.

The recent removal of three governors in separate judgements delivered by the Court of Appeal judges has ignited backlash from the public, particularly due to the political affiliations of the affected governors.

Speaking at a high-level discussion on Rethinking Western Liberal Democracy in Africa at the Green Legacy Resort, Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Ogun State, Obasanjo criticized what he referred to as “cathedral pronouncements” by the judges.

Obasanjo emphasized his belief that the rulings of a handful of individuals should not have the power to nullify the decisions of millions of voters. He urged for a reconsideration of the current system to address this issue.

Expressing his strong sentiments, Obasanjo highlighted the concerning scenario where a small group of individuals make definitive decisions that impact millions of people.