***Warns of Threat to Multiparty Democracy
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria has issued a strong warning over what it describes as a troubling pattern of judicial involvement in the internal affairs of political parties, cautioning that the trend could weaken Nigeria’s democratic structure.
In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, the group said recent court actions are raising serious concerns about the neutrality of the judiciary and its role in preserving political balance.
HURIWA stressed that courts must not be drawn into partisan struggles or be perceived as favouring the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) at the expense of opposition parties, warning that such a perception could damage the integrity of the judicial system.
The group pointed to Section 83 of the Electoral Act, 2026, which clearly bars courts from adjudicating on matters relating to the internal affairs of political parties. It noted that the law also prohibits the issuance of interim or interlocutory injunctions in such cases and prescribes penalties for those who attempt to bypass the provision.
Despite this, HURIWA said there appears to be a growing trend of judicial decisions that contradict these legal safeguards, raising questions about compliance with the law and the broader implications for democratic governance.
The association warned that continued judicial interference in party matters could fuel fears of a gradual shift away from a competitive multiparty system, with potential consequences for political stability and public trust.
It urged judicial officers to remain guided by the Constitution and existing laws, emphasizing the need to preserve the independence and credibility of the courts.
HURIWA also called on stakeholders across the political and legal spectrum to respect the boundaries set by law, stressing that the autonomy of political parties must be protected to sustain Nigeria’s democratic process.
