Nigerian Bar Association Warns Courts, Lawyers Over Interference in Party Disputes Ahead of 2027 Polls

The Nigerian Bar Association has raised alarm over what it described as the increasing involvement of courts and legal practitioners in internal crises within political parties as the 2027 elections approach.

The association said it is concerned that despite the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026, courts continue to entertain cases and grant injunctions in matters relating to party affairs.

It emphasised that Section 83 of the Act clearly states that no court in Nigeria has jurisdiction over disputes concerning the internal affairs of political parties, and also bars the granting of interim or interlocutory orders in such cases.

The NBA warned that the trend poses significant risks to constitutional order, democracy, and the rule of law.

“What we now see are situations where actions are not only instituted in Courts by lawyers in clear violation of the Act, but Courts purportedly grant interim and/or interlocutory injunctions in clear contempt of statutory provisions of the law.

“This does not augur well for our democracy. Democracy will not thrive in a situation where lawyers and courts take actions and decisions that not only negate our laws but also do violence to them,” the body said.

The association warned lawyers against filing suits intended to secure judicial interference in political party matters, stressing that such conduct amounts to abuse of court process and professional misconduct.

It said it would not hesitate to refer offending practitioners to the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee for sanctions.

The NBA also urged the National Judicial Council to discipline judges who entertain cases outside their jurisdiction or issue orders that undermine statutory provisions.

In addition, it called on the Independent National Electoral Commission to act with fairness, independence, and neutrality in exercising its regulatory responsibilities.

The statement, signed by NBA President Afam Osigwe, stressed that the judiciary must remain an impartial arbiter and not become a tool for political advantage.

It added that the association would continue to monitor developments closely and take necessary steps to ensure that the legal process is not weaponised, warning that Nigeria’s democracy must not be weakened by misuse of judicial authority.

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