Bipartisan Advisory Council Commends Court of Appeal’s Ruling
On Tuesday, the Bipartisan Advisory Council hailed the Court of Appeal for reversing the Federal High Court’s decision that mandated the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) along with four other political parties. This decision was described as a bold reaffirmation of constitutional democracy and the rule of law.
IPAC Calls for Judicial Accountability
The umbrella organization of all registered political parties in Nigeria reiterated its demand for the National Judicial Council to investigate judges who have rendered rulings that contradict constitutional provisions. Such decisions may lead to constitutional crises and erode public trust in the judiciary.
ADC Seeks Action Against Judge Following Appeal Verdict
The Council’s response came shortly after the ADC called for disciplinary measures against Judge Peter Riff of the Federal High Court in Abuja. This request followed the Court of Appeal’s decision to nullify Riff’s ruling, which had ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission to deregister five political parties.
Court of Appeal’s Decision Restores Public Trust
In a statement released on Tuesday, IPAC’s National Communications Director, Egbeola Martins, emphasized that the Court of Appeal’s ruling revitalizes public faith in the judiciary and reinforces constitutional protections for political participation and association rights.
Importance of Judicial Integrity Highlighted
Martins remarked that the decision is a vital reaffirmation of Nigeria’s multiparty democracy, stating, “This ruling restores confidence in the judiciary as the last hope of the common people and ensures that constitutionally guaranteed freedoms are preserved in our democratic framework.”
Democracy Dependent on Judicial Compliance
The advisory council asserted that the ruling reassures citizens that democratic institutions can uphold constitutional rights, even amid occasional judicial mistakes. IPAC has consistently argued that democracy can thrive only when constitutional provisions are respected and judicial decisions align with legal standards.
Judicial Accountability and Independence Must Coexist
Martins commended the judges of the Court of Appeal for their role in safeguarding constitutionalism and rectifying judicial errors that threaten democratic integrity. He reiterated the importance of holding judicial officers accountable for decisions that may pose political instability, asserting that this accountability boosts public confidence in the justice system.
Council Advocates for Strengthening Nigeria’s Judicial Framework
IPAC stressed that maintaining judicial independence should go hand in hand with accountability and adherence to the Constitution. “The judiciary is one of the most revered institutions of our democracy. While its independence is crucial, it must be accompanied by a commitment to justice and accountability,” he said. The council called on all stakeholders to uphold democratic values and support reforms that enhance the efficacy and integrity of Nigeria’s judicial system, advocating a collective effort to deepen democracy and ensure justice prevails throughout the nation.
Court of Appeal’s Ruling Addresses Jurisdictional Issues
The Court of Appeal’s unanimous judgment on Tuesday annulled the Federal High Court’s directive to deregister the ADC, Action Alliance, Accord Party, Zenith Labor Party, and Action Peoples Party, ruling that the lower court lacked jurisdiction. The case was initiated by the National Forum of Former Members of Parliament, which was deemed not a legally recognized entity with the capacity to sue. Furthermore, the appellate court pointed out that the Federal High Court should not have continued with the case, as it had previously ordered a halt to proceedings until the appeal was resolved, thereby restoring the legal status of all affected political parties.
