Most Nigerian yesterday expressed different opinion on the verdict delivered by the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal upholding the election of President Umaru Musa Yar�Adua.
“Umaru Yar�Adua and Goodluck Jonathan remain the president and vice-president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” said Justice John Fabiyi at the conclusion of a ruling that took more than three hours to deliver.
Alhaji MM Abdu former Permanent Secretary and chairman of Association for Truth and Justice said the judgement was a break through in the quest to sustain the country�s democracy.
“Whatever it is, whenever there is judgement on any issue there is room for an appeal. I am happy that both supporters of the Petitioners and Respondents are only expressing their views on the judgement and not taking to the streets or mocking their opponents.
“This shows that we�re matured and our democracy is really on course. And let me say this, any ruling that is not based on justice will definitely not stand. We need stability and peace in the country, and I am happy that the petitioners have signified their intention to appeal the judgement”, he added.
Alhaji Tanko Ibrahim Jallam former Speaker of the Bauchi State House of Assembly said the verdict was good one and both Major General Muhammad Buhari and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar can appeal the judgement if they are unsatisfied with the judgement.
“The judgement is good for the country and good for our democracy. Both former head of state, Major General Muhammadu Buhari and Alhaji Atiku Abubakar can appeal the judgement. But my appeal is that they should join hands to move the country forward. Both Buhari and Atiku are people I know, they are always principled in what they have been doing.
“They are people one can vouch for their integrity particularly as it relates to issues of national interest, both have worked for the development of this country, and I think they will look at the judgement and make their opinion to the public”.
Also, Mr Isaac Ahwuyen a contributor to the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) programme �Have your say� said “the tribunal verdict on President Yar�Adua election is the best that can happen to the nation. Although there were flaws in the said election but that does not mean he (President) had not won the election. I strongly believed that with the steps the President has taken so far, as portray him as the long awaited messiah. I am optimistic that Good things will come out of this present administration.
“Look, we need to move forward. All parties rigged the election. All are guilty, making rigging an indirect legitimate activity in that election process. The greater rigger won the election. If PDP did not rig, others will rig them out of power.
“So there is no big deal. Nigeria (and in fact many African countries for that matter) is not yet ripe for the Western-style democracy. The rule of law is maturing, and the next election will be better than this till we mature. Babies don�t eat strong meat”, said Joseph Amah from Lagos.