NBA Warns Against Judicial Interference in Politics

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), led by President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, has raised alarms regarding the rising judicial interference in the internal affairs of political parties as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections. In a statement, the NBA highlighted the need for close monitoring of recent political and legal developments, particularly regarding the interpretation and application of the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026.

The NBA referenced Section 83 of the Act, which restricts courts from entertaining cases related to the internal affairs of political parties, warning that the trend of filing intra-party disputes in court undermines the rule of law and risks turning the judiciary into a tool for political manipulation. The association cautioned against the potential for undemocratic advantages arising from such actions and called for disciplinary measures against legal practitioners involved in these practices.

Furthermore, the NBA urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to maintain neutrality to preserve public trust in the electoral process.