Former President of the Court of Appeal, retired Justice Isa Ayo Salami, has raised concerns about the eligibility of former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, to contest the 2023 presidential election, attributing the situation to what he described as judicial incompetence.
Salami made the remarks in Ilorin during a courtesy visit and award ceremony organized by the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ), led by its founder, Dapo Olorunyomi.
He further alleged that shortcomings among some judges have resulted in what he considers questionable judicial decisions.
“The inadequacy and incompetence of some judges are responsible for some of their wrong verdicts,” he stated.
He further asserted that Obi should not have been permitted to run in the 2023 election under the Labour Party.
“For instance, Peter Obi ought not to have been allowed to contest the 2023 presidential election. By the time he left the PDP, the Labour Party had already submitted its list of members to the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.
“The Constitution does not recognize independent candidacy. How did he become a candidate of the Labour Party if he was not a member?” he questioned.
Salami also expressed similar concerns regarding Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, arguing he should not have been allowed to run under the New Nigeria Peoples Party, NNPP.
“His name was not in the NNPP register, yet he was issued a membership card. The register is supposed to be the primary record,” he remarked.
The retired jurist criticized the judicial appointment process, highlighting that some individuals ascend to higher courts not solely based on merit but also due to regional factors and available positions.
“At times, one may find certain rulings, even from the Supreme Court, to be quite surprising. Some individuals attain these positions not due to their exceptional qualifications, but rather because there are openings available from their respective regions,” he stated.
He further remarked that several judges do not possess the requisite background and experience essential for their positions.
“Some of them struggle with learning. They lack the appropriate foundation to serve as judges. In earlier times, such appointments would not have occurred,” he added.