Technocrat Media, Abuja
The supreme court has struck out the suit challenging section 84(12) of the Electoral Act 2022, saying the suit cannot be entertained by the court.
The federal government through the attorney general of the federation, Abubakar Malami, had filed a suit to challenge that section of the Electoral Act, 2022, on the grounds that it violates the rights of political appointees.
The Electoral Section 84(12) reads: “No political appointee at any level shall be a voting delegate or be voted for at the convention or congress of any political party for the purpose of the nomination of candidates for any election.”
In the judgment delivered on Friday in Abuja, a seven-member pane of judges of the apex court led by Musa Dattijo-Muhammad, dismissed the suit, describing it as an abuse of the court process.
Reading the judgement, Aokmaye Agim, held that having earlier assented to the Electoral Act 2022, with section 84(12) in it, the president cannot turn around and ask the court to remove it.
“There is no provision in the constitution that vests the president the power to challenge the constitutionality or desirability of legislation after he has assented or denied his assent. In this case, the president gave his assent,” Agim said.
He added that the request by Buhari to the national assembly to delete the provision was a constitutional violation.
“The president has no power to request or compel the national assembly to amend any part of the Act of the national assembly in which he has participated in its making,“ he said.
“This suit cannot be entertained by this court under section 1(1) (a) of the Additional Jurisdiction of the Supreme Court Act.”
Excellent journalism is expensive. It is only the same that can help to build our society and country to entrench good governance, and development and ensure justice for all.
We need your support for investigative findings and special reports to demand accountable and transparent government. DONATE today to help us stay relevant to serve your quest for accurate and authentic stories.
DONATE TO 0450702364, naira OR 0657626454, USD – GTBANK
TECHNOCRAT INNOVATIONS PLUS LTD
