ABUJA — The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has thrown its weight behind the Nigerian Bar Association’s (NBA) position that regular courts lack the jurisdiction to adjudicate internal political party disputes, describing judicial interference as a threat to party supremacy and internal democracy.
In a statement issued on Sunday, ADC National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Chinedu Okpoko, cited Sections 84 and 251 of the 1999 Constitution as well as the Electoral Act 2022, which clearly outline that political parties are empowered to manage their internal affairs.
“We agree completely with the NBA. The law is clear—party disputes are domestic matters that must first be exhausted through internal dispute resolution mechanisms before any external intervention can be considered,” Okpoko stated.
The ADC cautioned that the growing trend of aggrieved members rushing to court at the slightest disagreement weakens party structures and undermines the democratic process. The party urged members to respect constitutional provisions and avoid forum shopping.
The NBA had earlier issued a communiqué at its National Executive Committee meeting condemning judicial overreach in political matters, calling on judges to respect the doctrine of non-justiciability regarding pre-election party affairs.
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