We Have Been Having Election Petitions In the Past But This One Is Different — Maxwell Opara

We Have Been Having Election Petitions In the Past But This One Is Different — Maxwell Opara

Mary Akanbi

6th April, 2023

According to Maxwell Opara’s interview with AIT during the Kakaaki program, when he was responding to the question whether or not legally the court can give judgement over the presidential election petition before the swearing-in of the incumbent President. Opara noted that the expectation of Nigerians are very high, and the tension is palpable.

He said, “We’ve been having election petition since 1999, but this one, even Okada man is analyzing it. It’s a very high-stakes game. The nation is hoping for a fast judgement, as this will determine the way forward for the nation. It’s a matter of justice and not just politics.”

The expectations Nigerians have placed on the judiciary to deliver justice in this election petition is understandable. There has been a lot of debate about the legitimacy of the elections and the allegations of electoral malpractice. As such, a fast and fair judgement is expected from the panel.

Maxwell Opara’s remarks about the Okada man’s engagement in the election petition is a testament to the importance of this issue to Nigerians. The Okada man is a symbol of everyday life in Nigeria, and his participation in the discourse shows that Nigerians from all walks of life are invested in the outcome of the election petition.

It is hoped that the panel will understand the weight of its responsibility and deliver a judgement that is timely, fair, and just. The eyes of the nation are on the panel and the hope of Nigerians is high.