NBA: Court meddling in party politics ahead of 2027, democracy at risk

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has raised the alarm over what it called escalating judicial interference in the internal affairs of political parties, warning that such trends pose serious constitutional and democratic risks ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement signed by its President, Afam Osigwe, the NBA said recent court actions linked to the interpretation of the Electoral Act 2026 undermine the rule of law and threaten democratic integrity.

The association specifically cited Section 83 of the Act, which bars courts from hearing cases concerning party affairs and prohibits the issuance of interim or interlocutory orders in such matters.

Despite this, NBA observed, some lawyers have filed suits in clear breach of the law, with courts reportedly granting interim orders.

“This does not augur well for our democracy,” the NBA said, warning that such practices risk eroding public confidence in the judiciary. The association accused certain practitioners of forum shopping and filing politically motivated suits to gain advantage.

The NBA reminded lawyers of their ethical obligations, describing members of the Bar as “ministers in the temple of justice” who must not serve partisan interests. It warned that lawyers found deliberately seeking judicial interference could face disciplinary action, including petitions to the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee.

The body also called on courts to exercise restraint and adhere strictly to statutory provisions. It urged the National Judicial Council to sanction judges who assume jurisdiction in prohibited cases or grant orders in violation of the Electoral Act.

The NBA further appealed to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to maintain neutrality and avoid actions perceived as political interference.

The association stressed that both the judiciary and electoral institutions must operate within constitutional bounds to protect Nigeria’s democratic process.