KWANKWASIYYA MOVEMENT EXPRESSES CONCERN OVER ADC JUDGMENT, CALLS FOR JUDICIAL INDEPENDENCE, PROTECTION OF DEMOCRATIC SPACE
The Kwankwasiyya Movement expresses deep concern over the implications of the Federal High Court judgment delivered on Nov.5 concerning the leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which invalidated the David Mark-led caretaker leadership and actions taken under its authority, including the process that produced Alhaji Atiku Abubakar as the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections.
This is contained in a statement signed by the spokesperson for the movement, Dr Habibu Sale Mohammed on Thursday in Kano.
“While the Movement recognises the constitutional authority of the judiciary to adjudicate disputes and insists that all political parties must operate within the provisions of the law, we are concerned that persistent legal battles over opposition party leadership and candidate nominations are creating uncertainty around the ability of opposition parties to organise, participate and prepare for the forthcoming elections.
“Nigeria’s democracy must be built on political pluralism, institutional independence, equal treatment before the law and the protection of citizens’ rights to associate and participate in the electoral process. These principles must not be compromised, regardless of the political party or individuals involved.
“The Movement is particularly concerned that, at a time when political parties should be consolidating their structures and preparing for credible elections, prolonged leadership disputes and conflicting legal interpretations could undermine public confidence in the electoral process and weaken the democratic space.
“We therefore make the following observations and calls; Judicial independence and due process,” Mohammed said.
He added: “We urge the judiciary to discharge its constitutional responsibilities with the highest standards of independence, impartiality, transparency and diligence. Every party to a political dispute deserves a fair hearing, and every judgment must be grounded in the law, the evidence presented and applicable constitutional and statutory provisions.
“Protection of opposition parties;
The Federal Government must demonstrate, through its conduct and the actions of relevant institutions, an unequivocal commitment to political pluralism. It must not tolerate, encourage or benefit from any action that could undermine the legitimate activities of opposition parties or restrict their participation in the democratic process.
“Neutrality of INEC; The Independent National Electoral Commission must remain strictly impartial and guided by the law and valid court orders. It must ensure that no political faction receives preferential administrative treatment and that the rights of all legitimate stakeholders are respected.
“Respect for the appellate process; We acknowledge the ADC’s stated intention to challenge the judgment. We urge all parties to pursue available legal remedies peacefully and responsibly. The appellate process must be allowed to determine outstanding questions without intimidation, political interference or attempts to prejudge its outcome.
“Protection of the democratic rights of Nigerians; The uncertainty surrounding the ADC’s leadership and nominations should not be allowed to translate into the disenfranchisement of party members, aspirants and millions of Nigerians who expect a competitive and credible electoral process in 2027.
“The Movement believes that democracy cannot thrive where political competition is weakened by institutional uncertainty, selective application of the law or the perception that state institutions are being deployed for partisan advantage.
“We are not asking the courts to favour any political party or individual. We are asking that justice be done fairly, consistently and without fear or favour. The credibility of our democratic institutions depends not only on the judgments they deliver but also on the public confidence those judgments inspire.
“Nigeria belongs to all its citizens, irrespective of political affiliation. The responsibility to protect our democracy therefore rests on the judiciary, the electoral commission, the government, political parties and every stakeholder.
“Our democracy must be protected. Opposition voices must be respected. The rule of law must prevail,” he said.
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