Elder statesman Chief Edwin Clark has strongly criticized former President Muhammadu Buhari, accusing him of unjustly removing Justice Walter Onnoghen, the former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), to secure victory in the 2019 presidential election.
Allegations Against Buhari and Malami
Clark alleged that Buhari, alongside his Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN), plotted Onnoghen’s suspension to clear the way for alleged electoral manipulations. According to Clark, the removal of Onnoghen was carried out in a manner that violated Nigeria’s constitutional provisions, which require the involvement of both the National Judicial Council (NJC) and the National Assembly in such decisions.
In a letter addressed to the current CJN, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, Clark praised the judiciary for eventually acquitting Onnoghen of the false asset declaration charges. He described the case as baseless and a clear example of oppression and political interference.
Reflecting on the 2019 Election
Clark linked Onnoghen’s removal directly to the 2019 elections, stating that it was a calculated move to suppress dissent and prevent Onnoghen from opposing alleged electoral misconduct. He remarked, “Justice Onnoghen would not have supported the dubious activities planned for the 2019 presidential election. His removal was orchestrated to ensure these plans went unchallenged.”
Call for Justice and Accountability
The elder statesman expressed hope that President Bola Tinubu’s administration would ensure equal treatment under the law, without protecting “sacred cows.” He emphasized that no one, including former presidents, should be above the law, and criticized the culture of immunity that shields leaders even after leaving office.
Historical Irony
Clark highlighted the irony of Onnoghen’s predicament, noting that the former CJN had previously delivered a Supreme Court judgment that favored Buhari in a 2011 presidential election case. However, despite his contribution to Buhari’s legal victories, Onnoghen became a target when his integrity posed a threat to Buhari’s political agenda.
A National Shame
Clark described the events surrounding Onnoghen’s removal as a “disgraceful and barbaric show of shame,” accusing Buhari of stooping to unethical tactics for personal gain. He added, “Nigeria suffered humiliation during this period, and it is only now beginning to recover.”
Moving Forward
The letter concluded with a call for transparency and adherence to constitutional processes in governance, urging the judiciary and the current administration to uphold justice and restore faith in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
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