By Kingsley Fanwo

LOKOJA — Chairman of the Progressive Peoples Alliance, Kogi State Chapter, Simeon Ojonuba, has called on the judiciary to use the Kogi political impasse to deepen democracy in Nigeria.

Speaking exclusively with Vanguard in Lokoja, Ojonuba said the Kogi experience has called the legislature and the judiciary to duty to defend civil rule and constitutional government.

The PPA chieftain said the party was concerned about democracy and the rule of law, adding that Nigeria has a lot to do in order to protect multi-party democracy.

“Before the impasse, PPA had already raised issues concerning the governorship poll. Our agents and supporters were attacked by supporters of the All Progressives Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party. That was unacceptable in a multi-party democracy.

“There is no doubt that our candidate, Mr. Emmanuel Ozigi, was the candidate to beat in the election. Many spurious messages were sponsored to create an impression that he wanted to step down. As far as we are concerned, Ozigi was the most qualified for the governorship of the state. How can the best step down for anyone?”

Ojonuba called on the Supreme Court to come out with a definite solution to the Kogi crisis, saying the issue is far from being over.