The Progressive Students Movement has commended President Bola Tinubu for what it described as his commitment to justice and democratic principles following a Federal High Court judgment ordering the Independent National Electoral Commission to recognise Hon. Ladi Adebutu as the Ogun State governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party.
The pan-African students’ organisation said the judgment, delivered by Justice Peter Lifu, reaffirmed the independence of the judiciary and the need to respect the rights of political parties to nominate their candidates.
In a statement issued on Friday, the National Director of Welfare and Political Engagement of PSM Nigeria, Comrade Awesu Fawaz, described the ruling as a boost to Nigeria’s democratic process.
The court had reportedly directed INEC to recognise Adebutu as the PDP candidate, holding that the commission lacked the power to remove a candidate sponsored by a political party without a court order.
Fawaz said, “We consider this judgment a testament to the fact that Nigeria’s judicial system remains committed to upholding justice.”
He also commended Tinubu, saying the President had consistently allowed justice to thrive since assuming office.
According to him, the ruling is good for democracy because it ensures that no political actor feels cheated and gives eligible voters the opportunity to determine who governs them through their votes.
The organisation, however, urged political parties and their supporters to maintain peace throughout the campaign period and after the elections.
It cautioned political actors against making inflammatory statements or engaging in activities capable of triggering violence.
“We call for a peaceful atmosphere during and after campaigns. We implore political actors to strictly caution their followers against comments or acts capable of inciting violence,” the statement added.
The group also praised the Ogun State Police Command and other security agencies for their efforts in maintaining peace since the commencement of campaigns.
It urged security operatives to take decisive action against individuals responsible for disrupting public peace, irrespective of their political affiliations.
Fawaz said security agencies must remain professional and impartial in dealing with political actors to ensure a peaceful electoral process.
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