Politics

Buhari gives marching order over Abia governorship drama

Published

8 years ago

July 3, 2016

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As Nigerians watch from the sidelines the confusion in Abia State, President Muhammadu Buhari has ordered security agencies to ensure that there is no breakdown of law and order in state.

This is as the President is said to be waiting to receive legal advice from the Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN) on the governorship tussle in the state.

According to reports, Malami, who traveled to Saudi Arabia for lesser hajj, is cutting short the trip and is expected back in the country on Monday.

It would be recalled that a Federal High Abuja had sacked Governor Okezie Ikpeazu and ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to immediately issue Dr. Uche Ogah with a certificate of return.

However, in another twist, a third contender, Friday Nwosu, joined the contention, asking to be declared the rightful governor.

Read also: Sadoh emerges Edo PPA governorship candidate

A government source said: “The President is awaiting legal advice from the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice who has been away to Saudi Arabia for the lesser Hajj.

“In line with his commitment to the Rule of Law, there is nothing the President can do without a legal opinion.

“The AGF is expected back in the country on Monday and from then we may get a legal opinion on the situation in the state.”

Another source also confirmed that President Buhari has taken appropriate steps to prevent a breakdown of law and order in the state.

“In line with the directive, security agencies have extracted commitment from Ikpeazu and Ogah that they will not take the laws into their hands. This was why the state Director of DSS had audience with Ogah on Thursday. The sitting governor has also given assurance to continue to ensure peace in the state.’

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Okechukwu Aribeana

July 3, 2016 at 10:54 am

Well and good. However, it is difficult to thrust this Attorney General to advise President Buhari without political bias. Mr. Malami has been calamitous in his actions.

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