The House of Representatives has commended the Department of State Services (DSS) for obeying the court order granting Ibrahim El-Zakzaky, leader of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), leave to seek medical attention abroad.
Igbere TV had reported that a Kaduna State High Court, yesterday, granted the Cleric leave to enable him and his wife, Zeenat travel to India for medical attention.
Justice Darius Khobo while granting the IMN leader the leave said he would travel in company of Kaduna State government officials.
He said the IMN leader must return immediately after his discharge from the hospital to face his charges.
The DSS while acknowledging the court order, said the Service would comply with the directive.
“This is to inform the public that the Department of State Services (DSS) has received the order granting Ibrahim El-Zakzaky leave to travel to India for medical treatment. Consequently, the Service is liaising with relevant stakeholders to ensure compliance. Conformity with the order is in line with the Service’s avowed commitment to the Rule of Law inherent in a democracy”, it said.
Reacting to the development, Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu told Igbere TV on phone that the decision of the DSS to obey the order has further confirmed their willingness to respect the independence of the judiciary.
Kalu representing Bende Federal Constituency, said also that the move was an indication that the present government respects the rule of law.
“The House of Representatives commends the DSS for confirming our confidence in their willingness to respect the independence of the various arms of government especially the judiciary”, he said.
“You will agree with us that the independence of the judiciary is critical to the success of our democracy. We consider this an indication that the rule of law is prioritised and respected by this government.
“The court ruling was made to ensure the good health of the accused person. It does not stop the judicial arm from tidying up the process of his trial upon his return. Recall, it was not an application for bail that was granted.The matter is still before a court of competent jurisdiction. It will be contemptuous, for us to speak in details on such sub judicial matter.
“Functional democracy is better achieved in a healthy atmosphere of independence yet close partnership among the arms of Government. This was one of the proposals of the 9th House of Representative’s Joint Task of Nation Building – promoting understanding between the arms of government for the interest of the citizens. This is a new dawn in our history of democracy, we are determined to work with all the arms of Government to take the narratives to the Next Level and With the support of the people, the effort of the present government to sustain the rule of law will be achieved”, Kalu added.
