Addressing journalists in Abuja on Tuesday, a former Commissioner of Police, Mr. Lawrence Alobi (rtd), said the issue of the constitutionality of the appointment of Justice Onnoghen as substantive CJN has generated ‘a lot of controversy across our political spectrum, which of course is not healthy for the stability as a nation.”
According to him, “…when the exalted office of CJN became vacant in 2016, the NJC in exercising its constitutional powers rightlyt nominated Justice Onnoghen and sent his name to President Muhammadu Buhari for appointment as a substantive CJN.
“…Mr President accordingly appointed Justice Onnoghen acting CJN. We thank him for finding our son worthy of appointment to the exalted office of CJN.
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“However, the president has not forwarded his name to the Senate as provided under Section 231 (1) of! 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Justice Onnoghen has been acting for almost three months.
“This has concomitantly raised suspicion and great concern among Nigerians, bearing in mind that for the past 30 years no southerner has been appointed as CJN, which of course is contrary to the principle of equity, justice and fairness.”
Alobi who said the forum without any intention to overheat the polity, “…therefore humbly and passionately appeal that the President and acting President, as a matter of urgent national importance, should do the needful and forward Justice Onnoghen’s name to the Senate for confirmation as substantive CJN, in compliance with Section 231 (1) of 1991 Constitution (as amended.)”
While commending President Buhari for considering Cross River state indigenes for appointments into top positions in his administration, pledged the loyalty and support of the forum to the president in their determination to checkmate corruption and fix the economy.
“We pray that the almighty God should grant President Buhari speedy recovery and a safe return to the country in good health,” he added.