NBA cracks down on Lawyers, warns Courts to stay out of political party disputes ahead of 2027 Elections
NBA warns courts over political party disputes
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has issued a strong warning to both lawyers and the judiciary against interfering in the internal affairs of political parties, citing serious risks to Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a detailed statement signed by its President, Afam Osigwe (SAN), the association expressed concern over what it described as a growing trend of litigation aimed at dragging courts into intra-party conflicts.
The NBA stressed that such actions undermine constitutional provisions and could weaken democratic institutions if not urgently addressed.
Electoral Act Provisions: Why Courts Must Stay Out
Central to the NBA’s warning is Section 83 of the Electoral Act, which explicitly limits judicial intervention in the internal affairs of political parties.
According to the association, the law clearly states that:
- Courts lack jurisdiction over intra-party disputes
- Judges must avoid granting interim or interlocutory injunctions in such cases
- Matters brought before courts in violation of this provision should only be addressed at final judgment stage
Despite these provisions, the NBA noted that courts have continued to entertain such cases, sometimes issuing rulings that directly influence party leadership contests and governance structures.
This, the association warned, poses a threat to the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral system.
NBA Threatens Disciplinary Action Against Erring Lawyers
The NBA did not mince words in addressing members of the legal profession, warning that lawyers who file cases aimed at securing judicial interference in political disputes risk facing disciplinary proceedings.
The association accused some practitioners of engaging in:
- Forum shopping
- Filing mala fide applications
- Seeking judicial orders for political advantage
It emphasised that such conduct amounts to an abuse of court process and violates professional ethics.
The NBA further stated that it would not hesitate to petition the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) against any lawyer found culpable.
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Concerns Over ADC Crisis and Political Tensions
The warning comes amid ongoing internal crises within political parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC), where leadership disputes have increasingly found their way into the courts.
The NBA noted that these developments, combined with interpretations of the Electoral Act 2026, raise serious constitutional and rule-of-law concerns.
By allowing courts to become arenas for political battles, the association warned, Nigeria risks turning judicial processes into tools for political manipulation rather than instruments of justice.
Call to Judiciary and Electoral Bodies for Neutrality
Beyond lawyers, the NBA also called on the judiciary to exercise strict restraint, urging judges to decline cases that fall outside their jurisdiction.
“Courts should firmly resist invitations to intervene in matters the law explicitly bars them from,” the association stated.
The NBA also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to maintain neutrality and avoid actions that could be interpreted as political interference.
According to the association, safeguarding democracy requires that both the judiciary and electoral bodies operate strictly within constitutional limits.
Implications for Nigeria’s Democracy Ahead of 2027 Elections
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections, the NBA’s intervention signals growing concern over the integrity of the democratic process.
Legal experts warn that continued judicial involvement in party disputes could:
- Undermine internal party democracy
- Encourage political actors to manipulate court processes
- Erode public trust in the judiciary
The NBA reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the legal system from abuse, stressing that lawyers must act as guardians of justice, not political agents.
FAQ: NBA Warning on Political Party Disputes
What did the NBA say about political party disputes?
The NBA warned lawyers and courts not to interfere in the internal affairs of political parties, citing legal restrictions and risks to democracy.
Why is the NBA concerned about court involvement?
The association believes judicial involvement in party disputes undermines the Electoral Act and could turn courts into tools for political manipulation.
What does the Electoral Act say about party disputes?
Section 83 of the Electoral Act states that courts do not have jurisdiction over internal political party matters.
Will lawyers face punishment for filing such cases?
Yes. The NBA has threatened disciplinary action against lawyers who file cases aimed at drawing courts into political disputes.
What is the role of the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC)?
The LPDC is responsible for disciplining lawyers who violate professional ethics and legal standards.
How does this affect the 2027 elections?
The NBA believes that ignoring these legal provisions could weaken democratic processes and create instability ahead of the elections.
What is the NBA’s advice to judges?
Judges are advised to decline jurisdiction in cases involving internal party disputes and avoid granting injunctions in such matters.
What did the NBA say about INEC?
The association urged INEC to remain neutral and avoid actions that could be seen as political interference.
What is the ADC crisis mentioned in the report?
It refers to ongoing leadership disputes within the African Democratic Congress that have involved legal battles.
Why is this issue important for Nigeria’s democracy?
It affects the rule of law, judicial independence, and credibility of elections, which are critical for democratic stability.