The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) caucus in the House of Representatives has formally urged the National Judicial Council (NJC) to caution judges against becoming instruments of political manipulation, warning such interference could destabilize Nigeria’s democratic process ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued by caucus leader Fredrick Agbedi, the lawmakers expressed serious concern over what they described as growing judicial meddling in internal party affairs, particularly citing Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2120/2025, filed by PDP state chairmen seeking to halt party meetings, congresses, and the national convention until the substantive matter is resolved.While the Federal High Court in Abuja declined to grant a restraining order requested by the plaintiffs, the PDP caucus criticized the court’s pronouncement declaring any PDP actions toward the National Convention during the suit’s pendency as null and void.
They warned that such judicial comments provide cover for anti-democratic elements aiming to block the party’s internal democratic processes.
The PDP lawmakers lamented that despite reiterated Supreme Court rulings discouraging judicial interference in party matters, some judges still entertain politically motivated cases, risking the integrity and stability of Nigeria’s largest democracy.
Therefore, expressing faith in the judiciary as a pillar of democracy, the caucus appealed to the NJC to uphold judicial independence and integrity to ensure courts are not misused to subvert the will of the people or destabilize political institutions.
“The PDP caucus called on the NJC to act decisively to prevent judicial overreach that could jeopardize the PDP’s preparations for the 2027 elections and Nigeria’s multiparty democracy as a whole.This development underscores tensions surrounding the judiciary’s role in political party governance and heightens calls for safeguarding electoral processes from judicial and political interference.
