He made this comment in Asaba, Delta State’s capital, yesterday during the inauguration of the state’s new high court complex.

Jonathan remarked, “My thinking is that 50 percent of those who go to court do so because they feel cheated by the electoral management system; they were rigged out. When you feel naturally aggrieved, you have to go to court. Assuming the elections are properly conducted, some still feel they can use the judiciary to declare them winners. If the judiciary doesn’t declare those who didn’t win as winners, that 50 percent will not go to court.”

He contrasted this with South Africa, noting, “In South Africa, the electoral management body will never compromise. If you lose the election, you wait for the next one; you don’t need to go to court because the judiciary won’t compromise.”

Jonathan also commended Delta State’s government for enhancing the working environment of judicial officers. He praised Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for focusing on infrastructural development and completing projects initiated by previous administrations.

Jonathan highlighted the long-term commitment to the new high court complex, which began in 1991, as evidence of the government’s dedication to continuity and development. “There are some projects fundamental to the state’s growth and development. We expect any incoming administration to continue them, and you are doing exactly that,” he said.

He lauded Oborevwori’s integrity, recalling an incident where, as Speaker, Oborevwori returned N500 million of unspent funds to the government.

“This certificate you have gotten is more than a PhD certificate. It shows you have a high level of integrity and can be trusted. Continue to manage the state’s resources in that manner and use the money to benefit the people,” Jonathan concluded.