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By Milcah Tanimu

Comrade Chika Idoko, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate in the 2023 General Elections in Nigeria, has submitted a formal complaint to the Chief Justice of the Federation and the National Assembly. In his petition, he accuses Abubakar Babasoro Esq, the Deputy Court Registrar 2 (DR2) at the Supreme Court of Nigeria, of obstructing the progress of his appeal in a case involving him and the Enugu State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Idoko’s legal battle began following the PDP’s 2022 primaries when he sought the disqualification of all PDP candidates in the state. His argument was that they had failed to submit their membership register within the 30-day timeframe prescribed by the Electoral Act before conducting their primaries.

The case initially commenced at the Federal High Court in Enugu, where the court ruled that, while the PDP had indeed violated the Electoral Act, Idoko had no legal standing in the matter as he was neither a PDP member nor a candidate in their primaries.

Undeterred, Comrade Idoko proceeded to the Court of Appeal, where he not only lost the case but was also fined N37 million in general damages for the respondents.

Subsequently, Idoko took his case to the Supreme Court, where he alleges that the proceedings have been hindered by the actions of Abubakar Babasoro and others.

In a letter addressed to the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Idoko expressed his concerns and frustration. He claimed that he had already sent three prior reminders to the Supreme Court. He highlighted the alleged obstruction by the Deputy Court Registrar 2 and other court staff, which he believed had caused a significant injustice to his case.

Idoko maintained that he had followed all the rules and procedures required by the Supreme Court. He questioned why his case had not been scheduled for a hearing, especially given that it was a pre-election matter.

In a separate petition to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Idoko recounted his efforts to engage with the Supreme Court and the lack of a response to his previous letters. He implored the Speaker to intervene on his behalf, emphasizing the importance of ensuring justice and fairness.

Idoko concluded his letter by reaffirming his commitment to seeking justice through the Supreme Court, highlighting the significance of the case for jurisprudence in Nigeria.

“Idoko’s plea for the Speaker’s assistance underscores the importance of a prompt resolution to this matter and the critical role of the legislative branch in advocating for justice in the nation.”