The Minister of State for Defence, Mohammed Matawalle, has said a recent High Court judgment recognising the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has cleared President Bola Tinubu of allegations that he interfered with the judiciary.
In a statement issued on Friday in Kaduna, Matawalle said the court’s decision proved that the President respects the independence of the courts and adheres to democratic principles.
A High Court in Abuja dismissed a lawsuit challenging the leadership of the ADC under former Senate President David Mark. The court ruled that the party’s leadership was in line with its constitution and the law.
Reacting to the judgment, Matawalle said: “Tinubu’s refusal to interfere with the judgement shows his commitment to democracy and judicial independence.”
He also said the ruling confirmed David Mark’s position as ADC leader and rejected claims that Tinubu was trying to influence the judiciary or turn Nigeria into a one-party state.
According to the minister, the judgment reflects the President’s commitment to due process, the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary.
Matawalle added that Tinubu has never attempted to influence court cases, including politically sensitive matters, despite repeated criticism from opposition figures.
He said the President had demonstrated his democratic values long before taking office through his role in Nigeria’s struggle for democratic rule.
The minister accused some opposition politicians of spreading false information whenever court rulings went against them. He said they ignored judgments that clearly showed the judiciary was acting independently.
He urged Nigerians to judge court decisions fairly and appreciate the President’s efforts to strengthen democratic institutions.
“The sanctity of the judiciary remains non-negotiable because the President believes that a strong and independent judiciary is fundamental to Nigeria’s democratic survival, political stability and national cohesion,” he added.
Speaking on security, Matawalle said the Federal Government remains committed to tackling insecurity through ongoing military operations across the country.
He said troops under Operation Fansan Yamma had dismantled several bandit camps, killed notorious criminal leaders and recovered communities that were previously under the control of armed groups in the North-West.
He added that military operations in other parts of the country had also weakened terrorists, bandits and other criminal gangs.
Matawalle assured Nigerians that President Tinubu remains committed to ending insecurity by providing the Armed Forces and other security agencies with the support and equipment they need.
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