Coalition urges judiciary to ensure fairness in Abubakar Gummi’s case

A coalition of civil society organisations under the banner of the Coalition of Civil Society Network has called on the judiciary to ensure fairness and uphold democratic principles in the ongoing case involving Hon. Engr. Abubakar Gummi, the member representing Gummi/Bukkuyum Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives. Speaking at a world press conference, the […]

A coalition of civil society organisations under the banner of the Coalition of Civil Society Network has called on the judiciary to ensure fairness and uphold democratic principles in the ongoing case involving Hon. Engr. Abubakar Gummi, the member representing Gummi/Bukkuyum Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.

Speaking at a world press conference, the group expressed support for Gummi and passed a vote of confidence in his leadership, urging the court to consider “the will of the people” in its deliberations.

Lukman Muhammad, the coalition’s convener said it believed that the court’s earlier decision on the lawmaker’s defection required a review.

The group noted that Gummi’s decision to move from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) was prompted by unresolved internal challenges within the PDP, which, it said, affected his ability to serve his constituents effectively.

According to the statement, the coalition maintains that Gummi’s political choice is a constitutional right that should be respected.

“The Coalition of Civil Society Network stands for democracy and the rule of law, and we urge the judiciary to ensure fairness, justice, and respect for the will of the people,” the statement read in part.

The group further argued that the case could set a key precedent for how similar issues involving elected officials and political party affiliation are handled in the future.

It also called on Justice Obiora Egwuatu to review the matter with due regard to the facts, democratic values, and the interest of Gummi’s constituents.

“The judiciary plays a vital role in sustaining democracy. We urge all stakeholders to act in accordance with the rule of law and the principles of justice,” the statement added.