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Peter Obi ‘Shouldn’t Have Contested In 2023’ — Ex-Judge Sparks Controversy
Justice Isa Ayo Salami (retd.), former President of the Court of Appeal, has stated that former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, should not have been allowed to contest the 2023 presidential election under the Labour Party platform.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Salami attributed the situation to what he described as lapses in competence among some members of the judiciary. He made the remarks in Ilorin, Kwara State, during a courtesy visit by officials of the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism, who presented him with an award at his residence.
The retired jurist expressed concern over the appointment and promotion of judges without adequate consideration for experience and capability. He said, “There are a few bad eggs among some judges—not exactly bad eggs, but some struggle with learning and lack the proper background to serve as judges. Imagine appointing a higher registrar as a judge with no experience. In the past, this would not have happened.”
Salami argued that Obi’s 2023 presidential candidacy should have been disallowed on constitutional grounds. “Peter Obi ought not to have contested the 2023 presidential election. By the time he lost the PDP primary, the Labour Party had submitted its list of members to the Independent National Electoral Commission. The Constitution does not allow for independent candidacies. So how did he become the LP candidate if he wasn’t a member?” he asked.
He cited a similar scenario involving Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf, noting that Yusuf’s name was not in the NNPP membership register but was still issued a membership card. While lower courts had raised concerns, the Supreme Court ultimately upheld the election outcome. “That is the problem of competence,” Salami remarked.
The retired jurist also criticized the promotion system within the judiciary. “People reach the Supreme Court not necessarily because of merit, but because there is a vacancy in their zone. They supersede seniors at the Court of Appeal who are more experienced,” he said. He recalled being overlooked for promotion despite recommending several judges who were later elevated.
Salami expressed gratitude to the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism for the award, saying, “I am very happy to receive this recognition. Any judge, even if not exemplary, would appreciate such an honor.”
He also shared that Chief Obafemi Awolowo influenced his decision to study law. “During Awolowo’s treasonable felony trial, he defended himself. I thought that if I ever enter politics and face a similar situation, I should be able to defend myself,” he said.
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