The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has expressed deep concern over recent political and legal developments as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections, warning that the nation’s laws and democratic principles must be safeguarded at all times.
In a statement signed by its President, Afam Osigwe, the association highlighted troubling interpretations and potential misuse of provisions in the Electoral Act 2026. According to the NBA, these actions pose serious threats to constitutional order, democracy, and the rule of law.
The association particularly criticized the increasing involvement of lawyers and courts in the internal affairs of political parties, describing it as a violation of Section 83 of the Electoral Act 2026. The provision explicitly bars courts from entertaining cases relating to intra-party matters and prohibits the granting of interim or interlocutory injunctions in such disputes.
The NBA lamented that despite these clear legal restrictions, some lawyers continue to file cases in breach of the law, while courts allegedly grant orders that contravene statutory provisions. It warned that such practices, including forum shopping and the use of litigation to gain political advantage, could undermine Nigeria’s democratic process.
“Democracy will not thrive where legal practitioners and courts act in ways that negate established laws,” the statement noted, adding that the misuse of judicial processes risks turning the courts into tools for political manipulation.
The association reminded its members of their ethical obligations, stressing that lawyers must act as “ministers in the temple of justice” rather than agents of partisan interests. It warned that any legal practitioner found engaging in such misconduct could face disciplinary action before the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee.
The NBA also called on the National Judicial Council to establish strict measures to sanction judges who assume jurisdiction in matters clearly barred by law or grant orders that interfere in party affairs.
Similarly, the association urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to exercise its supervisory powers with neutrality and independence, emphasizing that the commission must not be perceived as influencing political outcomes.
While expressing confidence in INEC’s leadership, the NBA noted that the commission’s actions would be closely monitored to ensure adherence to democratic norms and fairness.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting the integrity of the legal system, the NBA stated that it would deploy all lawful measures—including advisory opinions, engagement, and disciplinary procedures—to prevent the abuse of judicial processes.
“The courts must remain arbiters of justice, not instruments of political advantage,” the statement concluded, stressing that Nigeria’s democracy must not be weakened by legal manipulation or institutional compromise.
