By Wale Odunsi



The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) on Sunday claimed it had obtained draft resolution of the National Judicial Council (NJC) signed by the Acting Chairman of the Council, Justice Umaru Abdullahi, on the afate of suspended Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Justice Walter Onnoghen.

Imo Ugochinyere, CUPP spokesperson, in a statement, said Onnoghen will on Monday be asked to retire, while Justice Tanko Mohammed will be confirmed and his name recommended to the President for confirmation as the substantive CJN.

The statement claimed that the resolution also contains the defence for Justice Tanko Mohammed that as at the time he made himself available in the Villa to be sworn in as Acting CJN, he was not aware as security operatives were detailed to escort him from the Mosque to the Council Chambers that day.

It added: “The Acting Chairman of the NJC Justice Umaru Abdullahi (Rtd) has already sealed a deal with the Presidency, has received the draft resolution and has already commenced his role of persuading members of the NJC to support the government and adopt the resolution.

“Justice Umaru Abdullahi who happens to come from Katsina State and was also a classmate of President Muhammadu Buhari at the Katsina Government Secondary School has reached certain understanding with the Presidency.

“Nigerians will recall that this same Umaru Abdullahi was one of the first Persons recruited by President Muhammadu Buhari to defend his controversial Certificate sage by claiming that Buhari wrote the WAEC exam.

“The members of the NJC who have refused to be compromised have been promised that they will face the government music. At least couple of the NJC members has been told that they can only say NO if they are sure nothing can be found on them otherwise they should comply.

“Justice Umaru Abdullahi is completely compromised and should step aside for compromising the meeting and decisions of the NJC and receiving a draft copy of resolution from the Presidential Villa.

“The precedent of the decision of the NJC as was used in the case of Abia State has been excused and Justice Tanko Mohammed absolved of any collaboration with the Executive to violate the constitution.


“The bridge of the NJC and the entire judiciary is at the brink of falling. We shall continue to do all within the ambits of the law to defend our constitutional democracy and we must not wary.