Buhari Govt Sends ‘Strong’ Warning To US, UK, EU Over Onnoghen

The Nigerian Government led by President Muhammadu Buhari has warned the United States, the United Kingdom and the European Union not to meddle in the internal affairs of the nation.

Naija News had reported earlier that President Buhari 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 countries issued statements on Saturday, expressing concerns over Onnoghen’s suspension.

In the statements which were sighted by Naija News, the countries revealed their doubts over the commitment of the Nigerian government to ensuring the 2019 elections are free, fair and credible.

However, the Nigerian government responded in a statement released by Garba Shehu, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity, saying:”Nigeria reserves the right to be insulated from suggestions and or interference with respect to wholly internal affairs and commands international laws, customs and norms that mandate and require nations and the comity to respect this prerogative to all.

“Nigeria is confident of its electoral processes and her preparation for the imminent elections and the federal government has supported the independent electoral umpire in both its independence and resources needed to accomplish our desire and insistence on free and fair elections,’’ Shehu said.

The Presidential spokesman said the Nigeran government is ready to accept the prevailing keen interest and partnerships for successful elections and a peaceful Nigeria.

Shehu said the Buhari government has ensured the freedom of all organs, institutions and arms of government to “perform their functions in a manner that is transparent, and not lacking in integrity whether institutionally or by persons within such institutions or organs.’’

His words: “Although the question of foreign interference, whether state-sponsored, promoted or otherwise has dominated recent elections and outcomes globally, the federal government assures citizens and the global community that it will fiercely and assiduously promote the will and the right of Nigerians to choose and elect their leaders without pressure or assistance from persons or entities that are not constitutionally empowered to participate in the process.”