2027: NBA warns lawyers, judges against interference in party affairs

The Nigerian Bar Association has cautioned lawyers and members of the judiciary against interfering in the internal affairs of political parties as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections.

In a statement issued on Friday, NBA President Afam Osigwe expressed concern over recent political and legal developments, particularly regarding the interpretation and application of the Electoral Act 2026.

He warned that such actions pose serious threats to constitutional order, democracy, and the rule of law.

Osigwe decried what he described as the growing involvement of lawyers and courts in intra-party disputes, despite clear legal provisions barring such interference.

“We particularly deprecate the disturbing involvement by lawyers and courts in the internal affairs of political parties despite the clear provisions of the Electoral Act 2026,” he said, citing Section 83 of the Act, which bars courts from entertaining suits relating to internal party matters.

He noted that the law not only denies courts jurisdiction in such cases but also prohibits them from granting interim or interlocutory injunctions where such matters are brought before them.

Despite these provisions, the NBA president lamented that some lawyers continue to file such suits, while courts, in certain instances, issue orders contrary to statutory guidelines.

The association warned that the trend could undermine democratic processes, encourage forum shopping, and turn the judiciary into a tool for political manipulation.

Osigwe reminded legal practitioners of their professional responsibilities, stressing that lawyers are “ministers in the temple of justice,” not political agents.

He warned that any lawyer found filing cases aimed at dragging courts into intra-party disputes risks facing disciplinary action before the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee.

The NBA also urged judges to exercise restraint and avoid being drawn into political disputes clearly barred by law, calling on the National Judicial Council to sanction any judicial officer found violating such provisions.

It further called on the Independent National Electoral Commission to remain neutral and uphold democratic principles, warning against actions that could weaken political pluralism.

Reaffirming its commitment to protecting the integrity of the justice system, the NBA said it would deploy all lawful mechanisms, including disciplinary measures, to prevent abuse of legal processes and safeguard Nigeria’s democracy.

“The NBA will take firm steps to deter such conduct. Lawyers who deliberately file actions aimed at procuring judicial interference in intra-party affairs, or who seek ex parte or interlocutory orders in clear violation of statutory provisions, risk disciplinary proceedings,” the statement added.