Kenneth Okonkwo, chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has emphasized that courts exist to interpret laws and uphold order, not to create chaos or anarchy in society.

Speaking on ‘Sunrise Daily’ on Channels Television, Okonkwo commented on the recent Supreme Court judgment affirming that the President holds constitutional power to declare a state of emergency in any state where public safety or governance is threatened.

Okonkwo said:

“The role of the court is to interpret the law, not make it or amend it. Their decisions should bring order, not chaos or anarchy. Courts must operate within the rule of law and respect democratic principles.”

He noted that the Supreme Court’s position differs from statements by the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and other critics of the emergency, including some associates of President Tinubu, highlighting a misunderstanding of federalism and constitutional governance.

Okonkwo further referenced Professor A.V. Dicey on the rule of law, stressing that true rule of law entails:

• The predominance of regular law over arbitrary power
• Exclusion of arbitrariness or wide discretionary powers by government
• Governance strictly within the bounds of law rather than personal prerogative

He concluded that any legal interpretation should strengthen democracy, not give room for unwarranted presidential overreach or undermine citizens’ rights.