The President-General of Project Democracy, Hon. Gloria Boma Harry, has commended the judgment of a three-member panel of the Court of Appeal on the eligibility of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Osun State, describing the ruling as a reassuring sign that Nigeria’s temple of justice has not been completely desecrated.
Harry, who is also the House of Representatives candidate for Degema/Bonny Federal Constituency, gave the commendation while speaking in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital.
She said the judgment had renewed her confidence in the judiciary and demonstrated the importance of allowing the courts to discharge their constitutional responsibilities without fear or favour.
According to her, the judiciary occupies a critical position in safeguarding democracy, particularly at a time when political parties, candidates and their supporters are increasingly turning to the courts to resolve electoral and internal party disputes.
Harry urged judges to remain conscious of the enormous responsibility entrusted to them and ensure that the democratic process in the months ahead is protected from undue interference, contradictory pronouncements and conflicting judgments.
She stressed that the temple of justice must remain sacred and impartial, insisting that justice should be served regardless of whose interests or political calculations may be affected.
Harry expressed optimism that subsequent judicial pronouncements on the authentication of the leadership of the PDP under the Tanimu Turaki-led Interim National Working Committee, as well as disputes concerning candidates for the 2027 general elections, would be determined with the same level of impartiality.
She said such decisions should be guided by the principles established in previous judgments of the Supreme Court and the need to preserve the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
The Project Democracy leader also announced plans by the organisation to embark on a comprehensive voter sensitisation programme aimed at educating the electorate on the importance of making informed choices at the polls.
She said the initiative would focus on encouraging voters to scrutinise the character, competence, integrity and track record of political candidates before casting their ballots.
Harry warned voters against allowing short-term material inducements to determine their electoral choices, stressing that the future of their communities and the country should not be exchanged for temporary gratification.
She urged Nigerians to recognise their votes as powerful instruments for determining the quality of leadership and to support candidates with impeccable character and a demonstrated commitment to public service.
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