Former Chairman of the Police Service Commission(PSC), Solomon Arase, has sparked outrage in the Nigerian political sphere after making a shocking statement disavowing the efforts of Chief Patrick Eholor.
For the avoidance of doubt, Arase had reacted to the suit initiated by Eholor and 26 other human rights organizations, questioning the sacking of Arase, a process that didn’t follow due constitutional process. The report was captured in the news by several media outfits.
Eholor, known for his fierce activism and unwavering commitment to justice, had sued the federal government over the removal of Arase from his position as PSC Chairman. This bold move was widely applauded by many, who saw it as a courageous stand against political injustice and corruption.
In his personal message to Dr Eholor, Arase threatened, “You cannot stand for me without my brief. Bring down this post immediately. Am not desperate for any job. l have moved on. This your conduct is distasteful. Deal immediately or there will be dire consequences.”
As if that was not enough, he had promptly followed up the threat with the following message in a public group: “He is on a voyage of his own. I resent this self-serving endeavors. I have moved on and don’t have any intention to continue with the PSC. He should immediately stop this unsolicited action.”
This shocking about-face has left many in the Nigerian political community feeling shocked and disappointed. Chief Eholor, in particular, has expressed dismay at Arase’s disregard for the struggle for justice.
It is utterly baffling and deeply concerning that someone like Arase, a man trained in the law and with a position as a leader in the Nigerian justice system, would stand in the way of Chief Eholor’s legal efforts to fight against injustice. Arase’s actions demonstrate a disturbing lack of commitment to the very principles of justice and fairness that he is supposed to uphold.
Arase, by seeking to block Eholor’s efforts to hold the federal government accountable for his removal, the former PSC Chairman has revealed his true colors. This is not just a betrayal of Eholor’s efforts, but a betrayal of the Nigerian people, who deserve to live in a society where the rule of law is respected and injustice is challenged at every turn. The hypocrisy of Arase’s position is impossible to ignore. He, a man of the law, has shown himself to be unwilling to use the very tools at his disposal to stand up for what is right.
Meanwhile, Eholor, an activist and leader in the fight for justice, has been left to carry the burden alone. It is hearty to note here that 26 other human rights organizations joined the suit to see that the Nigerian constitution is not rubbed in the mud, whether it is about Arase or with any other Nigerian.
In the light of Arase’s opposition, and singling out Chief Eholor to threaten for his efforts to use the law to challenge his removal and his failure to effectively address critical issues during his tenure as PSC Chairman, we must consider the possibility that Eholor’s life may be in danger.
We cannot stand idly by while those who seek justice are met with hostility and intimidation. The life of Chief Eholor, a champion of justice and an unwavering voice for the people, must be protected at all costs. If anything were to happen to him, it would be a tragedy not only for his family and friends, but for the Nigerian people as a whole. His courage and leadership serve as a beacon of hope for those who seek a more just and equitable society. We must not allow Solomon Arase or any other power to silence Eholor’s voice.
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