Jonathan Advocates for Electoral Court Reform in Nigeria

Former President Goodluck Jonathan urged the National Assembly to review Nigeria's electoral litigation framework during a book launch in Abuja on Wednesday, coinciding with his 70th birthday. He proposed the establishment of a constitutional court to exclusively handle electoral disputes, arguing that the current three-tier litigation process involving election tribunals, the Court of Appeal, and the Supreme Court is ineffective and prolongs electoral disputes.

Jonathan referenced his own experience from the 2011 governorship election, where technical issues led to the cancellation of votes, highlighting the need for reform to prevent injustices. He suggested that Nigeria adopt a system similar to that of Francophone African countries, where a constitutional court addresses political electoral matters directly.

Jonathan emphasized the judiciary's role in sanitizing the political system, comparing it to a referee in a soccer match. He also praised Gbenga Daniel for his leadership and contributions to the political landscape, noting Daniel's role in the 2015 presidential campaign.