Why Nigerians Must Thank Atiku Abubakar By Segun Showunmi

The road any leader chooses to walk in his pursuit of redress, with respect to what could be a clear unsatisfactory handling of issues he is involved in, especially as it concerns the desire to democratically serve the country within the best of his capabilities, must reflect the inner character of the fellow.

Looking back at his conduct before, during and after the disputed 2019 presidential elections, one cannot but attest to the fine and statesmanly character of the Waziri Adamawa, former Vice President of Nigeria, and flagbearer of the Peoples Democratic Party in the 2019 presidential election, HE Atiku Abubakar.


Most men would have betrayed inappropriate emotions and candor unworthy of the high office they desire, particularly with the poor handling of political affairs by the opposition.


One only needs to research the books and comments, even from Buhari, against the ruling government, when he claimed he was rigged out, to appreciate Atiku’s civil conduct and patriotism.


This has shown that it is indeed possible for dignified conduct to be exhibited by African leaders. It speaks volume of why we must, in Nigeria, now reflect on our leadership recruiting models.


The case is now before the authorities known as the presidential election tribunal panel, made up of 5 justices of the court of appeal.


I watched very closely the handling of the issues that got thrown up by the lawyers to both Atiku and Buhari and, somehow, I feel optimistic and reasonably happy that with the way the trial has been handled, one can say: so far, so commendable.


I get the angst of the citizens as it concerns a disturbing pattern of messed up tribunal cases. A lot of our citizens and watchers from across the world feel a sense of anxiety as to how the independence of the judiciary will be affirmed and how justice must be done.


But I plead with us all to recognize that the principle of justice does not mean any of the parties can always have their way nor does it mean that once judgment does not favour one’s position, then justice has not been done.


With profound respect, in my opinion, justice would have been done if the issues before the judges, having been considered on their merit, and against the arguments presented within the law, are reflected in the pronouncements and judgment.


Judges must use every available opportunity to deepen the law and jurisprudence,


On Buhari’s Ministerial Portfolio Assignment 2019

From Saturday, 23 February 2019 – the day the election was conducted to 21 August 2019, the date he swore in his members of the cabinet; that’s a total of 180 days.


180 days can also be expressed as follows:


*15,552,000 seconds
* 259,200 minutes
* 4320 hours
* 180 days
* 25 weeks and five days
* 49.32% of 2019


One wonders why Buhari took this long, only to further disappoint Nigerians with parochial cronyism and hypocrisy.