Abuja — The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has expressed concern over what it described as growing attempts to involve courts 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, the NBA said it had been closely monitoring recent political and legal developments, particularly issues arising from the interpretation and application of the Electoral Act 2026.
The association noted that some of these developments raise serious constitutional and rule-of-law concerns that require urgent attention.
The NBA cited Section 83 of the Electoral Act 2026, which states that courts do not have jurisdiction over matters relating to the internal affairs of political parties.
According to the association, the law also bars courts from granting interim or interlocutory injunctions in such cases, even when actions are filed.
However, the NBA said it has observed situations where legal actions are still being filed and, in some cases, courts are allegedly issuing orders despite the clear provisions of the law.
It warned that such practices could weaken democratic processes and create room for manipulation.
The association expressed concern over what it described as attempts to use the courts for political advantage through tactics such as forum shopping and filing cases aimed at influencing intra-party disputes.
It stressed that such actions contradict the intent of the Electoral Act, which was designed to prevent abuse of the judicial system in political matters.
The NBA reminded lawyers of their professional responsibilities, emphasizing that they are expected to uphold justice rather than serve partisan interests.
The body warned that it would take firm action against legal practitioners found to be violating these principles.
It stated that lawyers who deliberately file cases to draw courts into internal party disputes, or who seek orders in violation of the law, could face disciplinary proceedings before the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC).
The NBA said such measures are necessary to preserve the integrity of the judicial process and deter misconduct.
The association also called on the judiciary to remain vigilant and resist attempts to involve courts in political matters that are clearly outside their jurisdiction.
It urged judges to strictly adhere to the law and avoid actions that could undermine public confidence in the justice system.
In addition, the NBA appealed to the National Judicial Council (NJC) to establish measures to sanction any judicial officer who disregards legal limits by entertaining such cases or issuing orders in violation of statutory provisions.
The NBA further called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to exercise its supervisory powers with neutrality and independence.
It stressed that the electoral body must not be seen as influencing political outcomes or engaging in actions that could weaken democratic competition.
The association noted that the leadership of INEC is expected to uphold the highest standards of fairness and adherence to democratic principles.
The NBA reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy and the integrity of its legal system.
It said it would continue to use all lawful means, including engagement, advisory opinions, and disciplinary processes, to prevent the misuse of legal procedures for political purposes.
The association emphasized that courts must remain impartial arbiters of justice, while electoral institutions must operate strictly within the bounds of constitutional democracy.
