ADC Crisis: NBA Threatens to Sanction Lawyers Over Intra-Party Court Cases
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The Nigerian Bar Association has cautioned that it will discipline lawyers who file court cases intended to drag the judiciary into internal disputes within political parties.
In a statement issued amid the ongoing leadership crisis in the African Democratic Congress, the association expressed concern over what it described as a rising trend of legal practitioners involving courts in party affairs, despite clear legal restrictions.
According to the NBA, recent political and legal developments ahead of the 2027 general elections raise serious concerns about constitutional order, democracy, and the rule of law, particularly in relation to the interpretation of the Electoral Act 2026.
The association emphasized that the law clearly prevents courts from handling matters related to the internal workings of political parties. Citing Section 83 of the Act, it noted that no court in Nigeria has the authority to hear such cases.
It further explained that courts are also barred from granting interim or interlocutory orders in these situations, even when such cases are wrongly filed. The NBA criticized the current situation where lawyers still bring such cases before the courts and, in some instances, courts proceed to issue rulings despite lacking jurisdiction.
Describing the trend as harmful, the association warned that using the judiciary to gain political advantage through questionable legal actions undermines democratic processes and weakens public confidence in the legal system.
The NBA reminded its members of their ethical responsibilities, stressing that lawyers are meant to uphold justice rather than serve as tools for political manipulation.
It also made clear that any lawyer found engaging in such conduct risks facing disciplinary action. The association stated that it would not hesitate to refer offending practitioners to the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee for appropriate sanctions.
Finally, the NBA urged the judiciary to remain cautious and avoid being drawn into political conflicts, emphasizing the need to protect the integrity of the judicial system.
