2027: NBA Warns Against Judicial Interference In Party Affairs.
The Nigerian Bar Association has raised concerns over emerging legal and political developments ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that judicial interference in the internal affairs of political parties could undermine Nigeria’s democracy and the rule of law.
In a statement signed by its President, Afam Osigwe, the association said it had been closely monitoring recent developments linked to the interpretation and possible application of provisions of the Electoral Act 2026, describing the trend as troubling and capable of eroding democratic institutions.
The NBA stressed that Nigeria’s laws and democratic values must be upheld at all times, noting that actions by some lawyers and courts appear to contradict clear statutory provisions governing political party disputes.
Citing Section 83 of the Electoral Act 2026, the association noted that the law expressly bars courts from entertaining cases relating to internal party matters.
The body further emphasised that the Act prohibits courts from granting interim or interlocutory orders in such cases, requiring instead that rulings be reserved for final judgment with accelerated hearings.
The association, however, lamented that courts are still being drawn into intra party disputes through what it described as “disingenuous litigation” and “forum shopping,” warning that such practices do not bode well for Nigeria’s democracy.
The NBA reminded lawyers of their professional responsibilities, stressing that they must act as custodians of justice rather than political agents seeking judicial endorsement of partisan interests.
It warned that any lawyer found filing actions aimed at procuring judicial interference in intra-party affairs, or seeking orders in violation of statutory provisions, risks disciplinary action before the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee.
The association also urged judges to resist political pressure and adhere strictly to the law, cautioning against being drawn into what it described as political theatrics.
The statement called on the National Judicial Council to sanction judges who assume jurisdiction in matters clearly barred by law or grant orders that violate statutory provisions.
Similarly, the NBA urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to maintain neutrality and independence in the lead up to the 2027 elections, stressing that its regulatory role must strengthen, not weaken, confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process.
Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding democracy and judicial integrity, the association said it would deploy all lawful mechanisms, including engagement, advisory opinions, strategic litigation, and disciplinary processes, to prevent abuse of the legal system.
The NBA also warned that Nigeria’s democracy must not be weakened by legal manipulation, institutional capture, or misuse of judicial authority, stressing that courts must remain impartial arbiters of justice while electoral bodies act as neutral umpires.
