NBA Warns INEC Against Judicial Interference in Politics

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), represented by its president Mazi Afam Osigwe, has issued a warning to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regarding its recent actions that could undermine democracy. This warning comes in light of INEC's decision to remove the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which has sparked widespread controversy and protests led by Senator David Mark at INEC's headquarters.

The NBA expressed concern over increasing judicial involvement in political party affairs, stating that such actions could violate the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026. The NBA emphasized that no court in Nigeria should entertain matters pertaining to the internal affairs of political parties, as stipulated in Section 83 of the Act.

The association called for INEC to exercise its supervisory powers neutrally and independently, ensuring that its actions reflect democratic norms. The NBA also warned lawyers against filing actions that could lead to judicial interference in intra-party disputes, stating that such actions would be penalized.