Jonathan Calls for Constitutional Court to Handle Election Disputes
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has urged the National Assembly to reform Nigeria’s electoral litigation system by creating a Constitutional Court to handle election-related disputes.
Speaking at the 70th birthday and book launch of former Ogun State Governor Gbenga Daniel, Jonathan said the current three-tier process for governorship election appeals—tribunal, Court of Appeal, Supreme Court—is lengthy and ineffective.
He cited a 2011 governorship case where votes were annulled due to the colour of ink provided to voters, describing it as an example of the system’s flaws. Jonathan proposed a one-step tribunal system similar to those in Francophone African countries, where constitutional courts exclusively settle political and electoral matters.
He also encouraged the judiciary to remain firm and decisive, likening politics to soccer where judges are referees ensuring fairness.
The event was attended by political leaders, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and representatives of the Tinubu administration.
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