NBA Raises Concern Over Judicial Interference in Political Party Affairs Ahead of 2027 Polls

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has expressed concern over what it described as increasing judicial interference in the internal affairs of political parties, warning that the trend could undermine Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement issued by its President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, the association said it had been closely monitoring recent political and legal developments, particularly the interpretation and application of provisions in the Electoral Act 2026.

The NBA referenced Section 83 of the Act, which it said restricts courts from entertaining cases relating to the internal affairs of political parties, adding that it also bars the granting of interim or interlocutory injunctions in such matters.

Despite these provisions, the association expressed worry that some lawyers continue to file suits on intra-party disputes, while courts allegedly issue orders that contradict the law.

According to the NBA, such actions weaken the rule of law and risk turning the judiciary into an instrument for political manipulation and electoral advantage.

“This emerging trend of subverting the clear letters of the Electoral Act and dragging courts into the internal affairs of political parties through disingenuous litigation, forum shopping, and malafide applications designed to secure undemocratic political advantage, bodes no good for our democracy,” the statement read.

The association warned that it would take disciplinary action against legal practitioners involved in such conduct, including petitions to the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC).

It also urged the judiciary to exercise restraint and avoid being drawn into political disputes that are clearly restricted by law, stressing the need for strict adherence to statutory provisions.

On the role of the electoral body, the NBA called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remain neutral and avoid actions that could weaken political pluralism or public trust in the electoral process.

It further noted that the INEC chairman, as a legal practitioner, is expected to uphold constitutional principles and ensure that the commission’s actions strengthen democratic governance.