Diaspora Alliance Reacts to Presidential Election Tribunal Court’s Judgment in Nigeria
The Diaspora Alliance, a prominent advocacy group representing Nigerians abroad, has issued a robust response to the recent judgment by the Presidential Election Tribunal Court in Nigeria.
In a statement sent to Excel Magazine International and signed by Emmanuel Ihim, Esq., Engr Paul Iwuchukwu, and Prince Charles Onyiuke, who respectively hold the positions of President, Trustee and Executive Governance and Regional Director of the Diaspora Alliance Advocacy, the organization expressed deep concerns regarding the implications of the court’s decision.
They called upon Nigerians to uphold democracy by adhering to the principles of necessity and self-preservation.
The tribunal’s verdict, which upheld Bola Tinubu’s presidency, has reverberated throughout the nation, casting doubts on the integrity of the electoral process and the commitment to democratic principles. Many individuals within Nigeria and the global community perceive this judgment as a setback for democracy and transparency.
In their statement, the Diaspora Alliance invoked the “Law of Necessity,” highlighting the significance of preserving the nation during times of crisis.
They echoed the sentiments of Thomas Jefferson, who once stated, “The laws of necessity, of self-preservation, of saving our country when in danger, are of higher obligation.”
The organization emphasized that even as institutions may falter, the indomitable spirit of the Nigerian people must rise to meet the challenges.
The Diaspora Alliance reminded Nigerians that the ultimate authority in safeguarding the nation’s democracy resides with the people themselves.
They encouraged citizens to recognize their inherent right to demand justice, fairness, and genuine democracy, even in the face of challenging institutional decisions.
Here is the statement in full:
“Today, Nigeria stands at a precipice, gazing into an abyss created by the very institutions designed to uphold its principles. The verdict by the Presidential Election Tribunal Court has done more than just shock the nation; it has instilled a sense of despair and has questioned the very essence of our democratic principles.
“While the Tribunal’s decision upholds the presidency of Bola Tinubu, it does so with an undertone that many consider dismissive of the Constitution and Electoral Law. The global community, which once looked at Nigeria as a beacon of hope in the continent’s democratic journey, now witnesses what they perceive as an ‘electoral robbery,’ a stark contrast to the country’s democratic ideals.
“Now more than ever, Nigeria finds itself at such a crossroads when the sovereignty and will of a nation’s people are seemingly overturned and shadowed. However, as a nation, we must remember that while institutions can falter, the spirit of a people remains unbroken.
“It’s said that justice is the bedrock of any democratic society. However, when institutions trusted to serve justice seem compromised, it’s crucial to remember the higher laws that govern nations and their people, laws not written in ink but in the very essence of humanity and nationhood. The Law of Necessity, the principle of self-preservation, and the indomitable spirit to save the nation stand paramount above all else. This LAW of Necessity and the higher obligation to the nation must guide our way forward. The powers that be might exert control over established institutions, but they cannot control the unwavering will of the people driven by a higher moral compass.
“Thomas Jefferson once said, ‘A strict observance of written laws is doubtless one of the high duties of a good citizen, but it is not the highest. The laws of necessity, of self-preservation, of saving our country when in danger, are of higher obligation.’
“Yes, we vested power in these institutions to protect our democracy. Still, when they appear to falter, the indomitable spirit of the Nigerian people must rise to the occasion. We must consider the LAW of Necessity, self-preservation, and the essence of saving our nation. In times where written laws might seem inadequate, these inherent, superior laws come to the fore.
“The Judiciary, despite being an institution of profound importance, is not the ultimate arbiter of the nation’s fate. That power, that authority, rests with the people of Nigeria. Yes, certain powers may sway court decisions or political outcomes momentarily, but they cannot stifle the inherent right of a nation’s citizens to safeguard their democracy.
“As the custodians of the nation’s spirit and values, Nigerians must remember that while certain factions may control the Judiciary temporarily, they cannot, and will not, have any authority over the superior Law of Necessity and self-preservation. It’s a law that reminds every citizen of their power, their duty, and their unyielding right to ensure justice, fairness, and genuine democracy.
“To every Nigerian reading this: We may face challenges, and there may be times when the pillars of justice seem shaky. But remember our collective spirit, our shared dedication to preserving the essence of Nigeria, is unwavering. No judgment no institutional decision can quell the inherent yearning for justice and democracy. The path ahead calls for unity, resilience, and an unyielding commitment to the principles that define us. Let us front-load our efforts, energies, aspirations, and actions, driven by the superior laws of self-preservation, necessity, and national salvation…towards a future where justice is not just a word but a lived experience for every Nigerian.”
Yours sincerely,
Emmanuel Ihim, Esq,
President, Diaspora Alliance Advocacy
Engr Paul Iwuchukwu
Trustee and Executive Governance
Prince Charles Onyiuke,
Regional Director
