Tambuwal Warns Judiciary: “Don’t Destroy Nigeria,” Invokes June 12 Legacy

|By Chinwendu Nwani

Former Sokoto State Governor and serving senator, Aminu Tambuwal, has issued a strong warning to Nigeria’s judiciary, urging judges and justices to resist any attempt to undermine the country’s democracy.

Tambuwal delivered the message on Tuesday at the national convention of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Abuja, where he declared that Nigeria is at a critical crossroads and that history will judge the actions of those in positions of authority.

“We are in very interesting times in Nigeria today, where pseudo-democrats have found their way to power and are now exposing themselves,” he said.

Shifting his focus beyond party politics, the former Speaker of the House of Representatives directed his appeal squarely at key national institutions—especially the judiciary—warning against external influence and manipulation.

He referenced the controversial role of the judiciary during the June 12, 1993 presidential election, cautioning that no judge should allow history to repeat itself.

“Let me remind those of you alive today of the judge that was used to truncate June 12. Let no judge or justice allow himself to be used to destroy Nigeria,” Tambuwal warned.

He stressed that every ruling carries weight beyond the courtroom, noting that future generations are watching closely.

“Our children and grandchildren are looking up to us to save this country,” he added.

Tambuwal further cautioned judicial officers to remain conscious of their moral and spiritual accountability, emphasizing that their decisions must reflect integrity and fairness.

“Even if no one is with you while writing your judgment, God Almighty is watching, and He will be the ultimate judge,” he said.

He urged members of the bench to resist pressures from political actors seeking to influence rulings, warning that such interference could weaken Nigeria’s democratic foundations.

The remarks come amid growing concerns over the role of institutions in safeguarding democracy as political activities begin to gather momentum ahead of future elections.