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The Supreme Court and the Bayelsa Governorship Judgement

As early as 8:15am yesterday, David Lyon, former Governor-elect of Bayelsa state was at Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa, rehearsing his swearing-in ahead of today (Friday, February 14, 2020) as incoming Governor of Bayelsa State.

The atmosphere was calm. Supporters were on ground to take a glimpse of what the big day, February 14, been Valentine’s day, would be like for them. He shook hands with friends, family and party faithfuls and they all couldn’t wait for the big moment to come. Then 5 hours later, the killer news breaks out. Lyon won’t be sworn in because his running mate, Biobarakum Degi-Eremenyio presented forged certificates to the electoral umpire. Sad!

I may not be a supporter of the All Progressives Congress, APC but this particular news shook me. Lyon’s election is one of the very free, credible and transparent elections this country has had. Lyon was generally accepted and voted.

How would anyone have imagined that a running mate apparently chosen to satisfy electoral laws and complete the number be the very one to bring down the ticket and cost the party the governorship? This is very sickening and painful.

No wonder they say, friends and associates can define you and your progress in life.

I can’t imagine how pained Timipre Sylva and the Bayelsa APC family will feel for all that they worked for to be thwarted by a Deputy they picked. This is great lesson to all. Know the people you work with – make (very) critical findings about them.

God’s Grace, meekness and loyalty found Lyon; but man’s fraudulent behavior denied him the exalted seat. Lyon’s case is worse than the Imo situation. Ihedioha’s removal was anticipated by many, including those who understood legal concepts and practice.

Is it right that a Justice of the Supreme court whose husband is a sitting Governor of another party be allowed to oversee a case as sensitive as this? Similarly, last year, we had a Judge of the Supreme court whose husband was a member of the APC and (even) contested the last Senate elections in Adamawa state, same state the PDP Presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar hails from. Some things are just not right with our judiciary. Can one separate conscience from judgement?

Congratulations to Governor-elect, Senator Douye Diri, as he takes charge, but is he expected to be loyal/answerable to former President, Goodluck Jonathan considering the latter’s role during the last elections? How about the 13 Commissioners and Special Advisers who deserted the PDP in support of Lyon, will the Governor work with them? Time alone will tell. This are all lessons.