The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has expressed its disappointment and dismay over the Supreme Court’s decision, yesterday, to postpone the hearing of the two pending appeals that challenge the validity of Hope Uzodimma’s governorship in Imo State. The apex court had earlier fixed October 31, 2023, as the date for hearing the appeals, but on Monday, it moved the date to December 5, 2023, without giving any reason.

HURIWA, in a press statement, accused some forces from Imo State of using undue influence and financial inducements to scuttle the October 31 hearing date. The civil rights group alleged that significant amounts of money in dollar denominated notes exchanged hands to manipulate the process, with the apparent aim of delaying the hearing until after the November 11, 2023, gubernatorial poll in Imo State, which would render the entire process meaningless.

The human rights group recalled that it had earlier called on the Supreme Court to uphold its commitment to justice and to hear and determine the two appeals before the November 11 poll, as they have implications for the political stability and democratic process in Imo State. The group also warned that the international community is closely watching Nigeria's efforts to maintain a credible democratic process, and any perceived irregularities could damage the country's reputation.

The group cited the recent statement by the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, who warned that loss of confidence in the justice system is a recipe for anarchy. The group said that the Supreme Court's postponement of the hearing date is a clear sign of loss of confidence and trust in the judiciary by the people of Imo State and Nigerians at large.

HURIWA urged the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, to resist external pressure and ensure the timely hearing and determination of the crucial cases. The group stressed that the Supreme Court's commitment to justice is paramount to restoring the confidence of the people of Imo State in the judiciary and to maintaining the credibility of Nigeria's democracy in the eyes of the international community.

The statement was signed by HURIWA's National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko.

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