Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to respect the orders of the court, saying that the President should have waited for the outcome of the pending case between the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) and Senator Ifeanyi Ararume before reconstituting the new board.
Senator Ararume had challenged his removal as a non-executive chairman of NNPCL
National Coordinator of HURIWA, Emmanuel Onwubiko, at a press briefing yesterday in Abuja, claimed that it was illegal for President Tinubu to have made the announcement when he was aware that the government had appealed a Federal High Court’s Judgement which invalidated the removal of the former lawmaker.
“The rule of law is the cornerstone of any democratic society, and its principles must be upheld at all times.
“The recent appointments announced by President Tinubu raise serious concerns about the commitment of the federal government to abide by the rule of law, especially when there is ongoing litigation related to the NNPCL board.
“Firstly, we acknowledge the president’s authority to make appointments under Section 59(2) of the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021.
“However, the timing of these appointments, amidst a legal dispute over the removal of Senator Ararume, is not only questionable but also constitutes a clear affront to the rule of law.
“In the case of Ifeanyi Ararume vs. President Muhammadu Buhari, the Federal High Court in Abuja declared Ararume’s removal as the non-executive chairman of NNPC as wrongful and ordered his reinstatement.
“The court also awarded damages of N5 billion in favor of Senator Ararume. This decision is binding until set aside by a competent court.
“As we emphasize the importance of upholding the rule of law, we must also recognize the broader implications of these actions for the democratic fabric of our nation.
“The judiciary, as the guardian of justice, plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the rights of individuals are protected, and its decisions are crucial in maintaining the delicate balance of power among the three arms of government.”