The Coalition of United Political Parties stated on Wednesday that the recent remarks attributed to Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, made at the inauguration of a project by the Rivers State Governor, Governor Nyesom Wike, were unintentional and not partisan in nature.
PREMIUM POLITICS reported that the CJN was reported to have commended the governor of Oyo state, Seyi Makinde for being among the five governors of the Peoples Democratic Party loyal to Wike.
The remark sparked outrage, with critics claiming it was partisan.
However CUPP in a statement by its Spokesperson, Ikenga Ugochinyere, said the attack and criticisms trailing the CJN over the comment were unnecessary as it does not portray him as partisan.
According to him, the opposition parties have no reason to doubt Ariwoola’s ability as a distinguished jurist.
He stated that the CJN was rebuilding the Supreme Court’s image after years of assault, and that the current attack was from mischief makers attempting to twist his comment on G5 governors.
While expressing confidence in Ariwoola’s leadership of the Supreme Court, he added that the coalition was keeping a close eye on the situation.
The CUPP said, “The opposition parties understand fully well that issues bordering on misconceptions and misrepresentations are not new in times like this when the country is preparing for general elections, and when the citizens seek a free and fair election and unbiased judiciary.
“But the recent statement by the CJN, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, which has continued to attract mixed reactions is absolutely harmless. We however will continue to have close watch and won’t hesitate to speak up, if we think otherwise. We urge Nigerians to ignore the clamour for CJN’s sack, these are actions of mischief makers trying to twist his comment on G5 governors.”