By Celestine Osemeilu, Editor
Following US, UK, and The EU disapproval of presidency sacking Onnoghen, the Nigerian Presidency has warned the United Kingdom, United States and European Union to desist from meddling in the internal affairs of the nation.
The U.K, U.S and E.U, on Saturday January 26, 2019 expressed concerns over the suspension of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Walter Onnoghen on Friday. They also revealed their doubts over the commitment of the Nigerian government to ensuring the 2019 elections are free, fair and credible.
In a statement released by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity, Garba Shehu;
”Nigeria reserves the right to be insulated from suggestions and or interference with respect to wholly internal affairs and commends international laws, customs and norms that mandate and require nations and the comity to respect this prerogative to all.
“Nigeria is confident of its electoral processes and her preparation for the imminent elections and the federal government has supported the independent electoral umpire in both its independence and resources needed to accomplish our desire and insistence on free and fair elections’’.
He said the government is ready to accept the prevailing keen interest and partnerships for successful elections and a peaceful Nigeria.
Shehu said government has ensured the freedom of all organs, institutions and arms of government to “perform their functions in a manner that is transparent, and not lacking in integrity whether institutionally or by persons within such institutions or organs.’’
“Although the question of foreign interference, whether state sponsored, promoted or otherwise has dominated recent elections and outcomes globally, the federal government assures citizens and the global community that it will fiercely and assiduously promote the will and the right of Nigerians to choose and elect their leaders without pressure or assistance from persons or entities that are not constitutionally empowered to participate in the process.”
Buhari on Friday swore in Justice Ibrahim Tanko Mohammed as Ag. CJN after suspending Justice Onnoghen.
