The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has expressed deep concern over what it described as growing judicial interference in the internal affairs of political parties, warning that such actions could undermine Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a strongly worded statement issued by its President, Afam Osigwe (SAN), the association said it has been closely monitoring recent political and legal developments, particularly those linked to the interpretation and application of the Electoral Act 2026.
The NBA cited Section 83 of the Act, which expressly bars courts from entertaining cases related to the internal affairs of political parties. It stressed that the law also prohibits courts from granting interim or interlocutory injunctions in such matters.
According to the association, there has been a troubling trend where lawyers file suits in clear violation of the Act, while courts proceed to grant orders that contradict statutory provisions.
“This does not augur well for our democracy,” the NBA stated, warning that such practices could turn the judiciary into a tool for political manipulation and electoral advantage.
The association further condemned what it described as “disingenuous litigation, forum shopping, and malafide applications,” noting that these actions risk eroding public confidence in the legal system and weakening democratic processes.
The NBA cautioned its members against engaging in such conduct, reminding lawyers of their role as “Ministers in the Temple of Justice” rather than political actors.
It warned that any legal practitioner found deliberately filing cases to draw courts into intra-party disputes, or seeking prohibited court orders, would face disciplinary action before the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC).
The body also called on the National Judicial Council (NJC) to sanction judges who assume jurisdiction in matters clearly barred by law or grant orders that violate statutory provisions.
In addition, the NBA urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remain neutral and uphold democratic principles, warning against any perception of political bias or institutional interference.
The association emphasized that Nigeria’s democracy must be protected from “legal maneuvering, institutional capture, or misuse of judicial authority,” insisting that courts must remain impartial arbiters of justice.
Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the legal system, the NBA said it would deploy all lawful mechanisms, including disciplinary processes and strategic litigation, to prevent abuse of the judicial process.
“The courts must remain arbiters of justice, not instruments of political advantage,” the statement concluded.
