The Nigerian Bar Association(NBA) has issued a warning that attorneys who file court proceedings with the intention of involving the judiciary in internal political party conflicts would face disciplinary action.
In a statement issued amid the coalition-backed ADC factional leadership crisis, the association denounced what it described as a growing trend of courts and lawyers getting involved in party disputes despite the law’s explicit provisions.
“The Nigerian Bar Association has closely monitored recent political and legal developments as the nation gradually approaches the 2027 General Elections,” the statement read.
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“These developments, particularly those arising from the interpretation and potential application of provisions of the Electoral Act 2026, raise serious constitutional, democratic, and rule-of-law concerns that require immediate intervention.”
Meanwhile, the NBA emphasised that the legislation expressly prohibits courts from considering complaints involving political parties’ internal affairs.
Quoting Section 83 of the Electoral Act 2026, it said, “No court in Nigeria shall entertain jurisdiction over any suit or matter pertaining to the internal affairs of a political party.”
It further clarified that in these kinds of cases, courts are not allowed to issue interim or interlocutory orders.
Sanctions For Lawyers
Additionally, the association denounced what it called persistent breaches of these clauses. Such actions could jeopardise democratic processes, the NBA cautioned.
The association also reaffirmed its stance and reminded attorneys of their professional responsibilities.
The NBA therefore vowed to take decisive action against erring practitioners.
It added that the move is necessary “to serve as a deterrent and to preserve the sanctity of the judicial process”
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It also urged courts to resist being drawn into what it termed political manoeuvring.
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