Protest in Calabar over Onnoghen’s suspension

A group known as the “Concerned Cross Riverians on The Unconstitutional Suspension of the CJN” took to the streets to protest the suspension of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Walter Onnoghen by President Muhammadu Buhari, describing as unconstitutional.

They further demanded the immediate reinstatement of the Chief Justice of Nigeria with all his rights and privilege as the CJN.

They also vowed to vote out the All Progressives  Congress (APC), at all levels especially President Mohammadu Buhari, as according to them, there were are so many burning issues that needed attention more than the “illegal suspension” of the CJN but have not been attended to.

Reading a communiqué on behalf of the group a constitutional lawyer, Leo Anyogo, said the people of Cross River were dismayed by the development.

“Whereas the peace loving people of Cross River have always contributed freely and enormously to the growth and development of the Nigerian state; we recalled with dismay the foot dragging in the swearing of Justice Walter Onnoghen by President Buhari after due recommendation by the NJC and confirmation by the senate which after pressure and outcry, was subsequently sworn-in by the then Acting President and current Vice President Prof Yomi Osibanjo.

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“It is with total shock and disbelief that President Buhari in clear violation of S.292 of the constitution and that of the court of Appeal purportedly suspended the CJN without due process. This is clearly an assault on the Sacred Temple of Justice.

“While we are in no way absolving the Honuorable Chief Justice of blame for any possible error, we insist that constitutionality and due process must be followed before his suspension or removal. We commend all those who are standing up for the defense of our constitution as we practice constitutional democracy with clear cut separation of Powers within the three Arms of Government.

“It is more shocking to the sensibilities of the state, perhaps due to her peaceful nature, to play politics with the illustrious CJN, who has merited that position by the provision of our Supreme Law,” he said.

“We hereby demand the immediate reinstatement of the Chief Justice of Nigeria with all his rights and Privileges as CJN as well as apologize to the Nigerian state and in particular Cross River for the attempted extra-constitutional and extra judicial removal of the CJN. There must be observance of due process and respect for the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in suspending or removing the CJN,” he read.