Trumps Fires PMB

President Donald Trump of the United States has sent a special message to the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, correcting the misunderstanding the interference of the U.S government in the suspension of Justice Walter Onnoghen might cause.

Speaking on behalf of his country, US Ambassador to Nigeria, Stuart Symington, says whatever happens in Nigeria will affect the U.S and the world.

According to the US Mission in Nigeria, Symington said this in response to questions on the interest of the US in Nigeria’s democracy.

Recalled that the federal government kicked against the decision of the European Union, US and UK, to comment on President Muhammadu Buhari’s suspension of Walter Onnoghen, Chief Justice of Nigeria.

In separate statements, the international community expressed concern over the timing, saying the action could have effect on the credibility of the elections.

The Embassy of the United States said in a statement that it was “deeply concerned by the impact of the executive branch’s decision to suspend and replace the Chief Justice and head of the judicial branch without the support of the legislative branch on the eve of national and state elections.”

The statement reads:

“The Embassy of the United States is deeply concerned by the impact of the executive branch’s decision to suspend and replace the Chief Justice and head of the judicial branch without the support of the legislative branch on the eve of national and state elections.

“We note widespread Nigerian criticism that this decision is unconstitutional and that it undermines the independence of the judicial branch. That undercuts the stated determination of government, candidates, and political party leaders to ensure that the elections proceed in a way that is free, fair, transparent, and peaceful – leading to a credible result.

“We urge that the issues raised by this decision be resolved swiftly and peacefully in accordance with due process, full respect for the rule of law, and the spirit of the Constitution of Nigeria. Such action is needed urgently now to ensure that this decision does not cast a pall over the electoral process.”

But the presidency, in its response, had accused the US of undue interference in Nigeria’s affairs. Garba Shehu, presidential spokesman, had said the position of the US and other European countries  on Onnoghen’s suspension was out of misunderstanding.