EU Speaks On Suspension Of Onnoghen As CJN

The European Union says it is “very concerned” about the process and timing of the suspension Walter Onnoghen as the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN).

Naija News had reported earlier that the President suspended Onnoghen on Friday and immediately appointed Tanko Mohammed as the acting Chief Justice of Nigeria.

Giving reasons for his decision in his speech which was obtained by Naija News, the President said there was an order from the Code of Conduct Tribunal, CCT, asking him to wield the big stick.

President Buhari said the order demanded that the CJN be suspended depending on the determination of his ongoing trial at the tribunal.

Apparently displeased with the development, the EU in a statement, said it spoke out based on an invitation to cover the election extended to it by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

“The EU Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) is very concerned about the process and timing of the suspension of the Chief Justice of Nigeria. Honourable justice Walter Onnoghen, on 25 January,” the statement read.

“With 20 days until the presidential and National Assembly elections, political parties, candidates and voters must be able to have confidence in the impartiality and independence of the judicial system.

“The EU EOM calls on all parties to follow the legal processes provided for in the Constitution and to respond calmly to any concerns they may have,” it added.