The Kwankwasiyya Movement has raised the alarm over what it described as a disturbing trend of judicial interventions in the internal affairs of political parties across Nigeria.
The movement expressed deep concern over the recent judgment delivered by Justice Bello Kawu of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Abuja, involving the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).
A press statement released on Thursday and signed by Dr. Habibu Sale Mohammed, Spokesperson of the Kwankwasiyya Movement said, “This development is not an isolated incident but part of a troubling and escalating trend in which certain judicial actions appear to overstep constitutional boundaries, produce conflicting orders, and raise serious concerns about neutrality, due process, and the sanctity of the rule of law.”
According to the statement, similar interventions have been witnessed in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), and African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The movement said these interventions have often resulted in confusion, deepened factional disputes, and weakened internal party structures, thereby creating opportunities for manipulation by political opportunists.
The Kwankwasiyya Movement highlighted a growing problem with courts of coordinate jurisdiction issuing conflicting rulings on similar matters, entertaining cases already under appeal, and at times disregarding fundamental principles of fair hearing and procedural integrity.
The statement warned that the apparent erosion of established legal doctrines such as stare decisis is both alarming and unacceptable, as it undermines the consistency and predictability upon which the legal system depends.
“These developments are fueling a widespread perception that elements within the judicial process are being drawn into political contests in ways that threaten the independence of the courts. When judicial outcomes consistently generate controversy, appear one-sided, or are seen to interfere in the internal mechanisms of political parties, public confidence in the judiciary is inevitably weakened.
“This is a dangerous trajectory for any democracy, particularly in a country preparing for critical electoral contests in the coming year. The implications for Nigeria’s democratic stability are profound. If this pattern continues unchecked, it risks eroding trust in democratic institutions, escalating political tensions, and undermining the credibility of future elections. A democracy cannot thrive where the rule of law is perceived to be selectively applied or subject to manipulation,” the statement reads in part.
The movement called on opposition parties to rise above narrow interests and unite against any abuse of the judiciary aimed at undermining democratic opposition in Nigeria.
“This is not merely a partisan issue; it is a national imperative to safeguard the rule of law and preserve the integrity of our democracy,” the statement said.
It urged the exploration of all lawful and peaceful measures, including raising international awareness, engaging civil society, and organizing legitimate public protests where necessary.
“A collective and principled response is essential to resist any actions that threaten justice, fairness, and democratic values,” the movement added.
The Kwankwasiyya Movement also called on the National Judicial Council (NJC) to urgently review and address growing concerns surrounding conflicting and controversial judicial decisions.
“We urge judicial officers across the federation to exercise restraint, uphold the highest standards of professionalism, and remain firmly guided by the principles of fairness, due process, and constitutional order,” the statement said.
Political actors were also cautioned against resorting to forum shopping and judicial manipulation as tools to gain advantage in internal party disputes.
“Nigeria’s democracy must be protected from all forms of institutional distortion. The judiciary must remain a pillar of justice and not a source of uncertainty,” the movement stressed.
“The Kwankwasiyya Movement remains committed to the defense of democratic values and will continue to advocate for a system where the rule of law prevails, justice is impartial, and the will of the people is respected,” the statement added
