Kwankwasiyya Movement expresses concern over pattern of judicial pronouncements in Nigeria
By Ali Baba-Inuwa
The Kwankwasiyya Movement, has expressed reservations about the pattern of judicial pronouncements from courts across Nigeria.
This is contained in a statement issued by Dr. Habibu Sale Mohammed, spokesperson for Kwankwasiyya Movement in Kano.
“The Kwankwasiyya Movement has observed with deep concern the disturbing pattern of judicial pronouncements emerging from courts across Nigeria, most recently the controversial judgment delivered by Justice Bello Kawu of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Abuja, in a matter involving the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).
“This development is not an isolated incident but part of a troubling and escalating trend in which certain judicial actions appear to overstep constitutional boundaries, produce conflicting orders, and raise serious concerns about neutrality, due process, and the sanctity of the rule of law.
“Across the country, Nigerians have witnessed similar judicial interventions in the internal affairs of major political parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Labour Party (LP), and the African Democratic Congress (ADC). These interventions have often resulted in confusion, deepened factional disputes, and weakened internal party structures, thereby creating opportunities for manipulation by political opportunists.
“Of particular concern is the growing tendency for courts of coordinate jurisdiction to issue conflicting rulings on similar matters, entertain cases that are already subject to appellate consideration, and, in some instances, proceed in ways that appear to disregard fundamental principles of fair hearing and procedural integrity. The apparent erosion of established legal doctrines such as stare decisis is both alarming and unacceptable, as it undermines the consistency and predictability upon which the legal system depends,” Mohammed said.
He said that the developments
“These developments are fueling a widespread perception that elements within the judicial process are being drawn into political contests in ways that threaten the independence of the courts. When judicial outcomes consistently generate controversy, appear one-sided, or are seen to interfere in the internal mechanisms of political parties, public confidence in the judiciary is inevitably weakened. This is a dangerous trajectory for any democracy, particularly in a country preparing for critical electoral contests in the coming year.
“The implications for Nigeria’s democratic stability are profound. If this pattern continues unchecked, it risks eroding trust in democratic institutions, escalating political tensions, and undermining the credibility of future elections. A democracy cannot thrive where the rule of law is perceived to be selectively applied or subject to manipulation.
“In light of these concerns, opposition parties must rise above narrow interests and unite in taking a firm, coordinated stand against any abuse of the judiciary aimed at undermining democratic opposition in Nigeria. This is not merely a partisan issue; it is a national imperative to safeguard the rule of law and preserve the integrity of our democracy.
“All lawful and peaceful measures must be explored, including raising international awareness, engaging civil society, and organizing legitimate public protests where necessary. A collective and principled response is essential to resist any actions that threaten justice, fairness, and democratic values,” he said.
Mohammed urged the National Judicial Council to address the problem in a very short while.
“The Kwankwasiyya Movement therefore calls on the National Judicial Council (NJC) to urgently review and address the growing concerns surrounding conflicting and controversial judicial decisions. We urge judicial officers across the federation to exercise restraint, uphold the highest standards of professionalism, and remain firmly guided by the principles of fairness, due process, and constitutional order. We also caution political actors against the increasing tendency to resort to forum shopping and judicial manipulation as tools for gaining advantage in internal party disputes.
“Nigeria’s democracy must be protected from all forms of institutional distortion. The judiciary must remain a pillar of justice and not a source of uncertainty.
“The Kwankwasiyya Movement remains committed to the defense of democratic values and will continue to advocate for a system where the rule of law prevails, justice is impartial, and the will of the people is respected, ” he said.
