The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has lauded the intervention of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in its ongoing leadership dispute, describing the legal body’s position as a validation of its long-standing concerns over alleged judicial interference.
In a statement issued on Saturday and signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party said the NBA’s warning against the abuse of court processes and forum shopping reinforces its argument that certain legal actions challenging its leadership are fundamentally flawed.
The party maintained that recent attempts to alter its leadership structure through the courts amount to a deliberate misuse of the judicial system for political purposes. It stressed that such actions undermine both the rule of law and the democratic framework governing political parties in Nigeria.
According to the ADC, the NBA had clearly stated that courts do not have jurisdiction over the internal affairs of political parties, particularly where interlocutory orders are being sought in violation of provisions of the Electoral Act.
“This intervention by the NBA confirms what we have consistently said, that what is being presented as a legal dispute is, in reality, a calculated attempt to manipulate judicial processes for political advantage,” the statement noted.
The party further linked the controversy to broader political tensions within the country, suggesting that the dispute reflects growing unease within the political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.
While commending the NBA for its firm stance and its call for disciplinary measures against erring legal practitioners, the ADC urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to act with caution and impartiality.
It warned the electoral body against taking steps that could legitimise what it described as unlawful judicial interference, stressing the importance of maintaining institutional neutrality.
“INEC must remain a neutral arbiter and avoid any action that may be interpreted as endorsing illegality or political manipulation,” the party stated.
The ADC added that the matter goes beyond its internal affairs and touches on the broader integrity of Nigeria’s democratic system. It reaffirmed its commitment to resolving the dispute through lawful means while safeguarding its leadership structure.
