Protests broke out on Monday outside the Federal High Court in Abuja as demonstrators voiced their opposition to the ongoing efforts to deregister several opposition parties.
The protest raised alarm over the potential erosion of judicial independence and the prospect of political interference in Nigeria’s democratic processes.
Under the banner of Concerned Northern Nigeria Stakeholders, the protesters gathered in Wuse, calling for a halt to the move and expressing concerns about what they described as an existential threat to the nation’s democratic structure.
They marched with placards and chanted slogans warning that such actions could destabilize the political system.
Security was heightened around the court complex, with officials from the Department of State Services (DSS) limiting access to the area.
Banki Sharrif, the Leader of the Group, told journalists that the Administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was undermining democratic institutions, specifically alleging that the government was interfering with both the judiciary and the electoral processes.
Sharrif emphasised the importance of judicial independence for the health of Nigeria’s democracy. He warned that any appearance of executive influence over the judiciary could erode public confidence and have far-reaching consequences for the political landscape.
“The continued attempts to weaken opposition parties are not just a blow to democratic competition but also signal a broader weakening of governance,” Sharrif remarked.
“These actions could threaten the foundational principles of our democracy.”
The protesters also raised concerns about the neutrality of the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, whose office is central to the legal push for the deregistration of the affected parties. They urged that the Attorney General’s role should remain free from political influence and be carried out with impartiality in line with constitutional duties.
The protest comes amid ongoing legal proceedings that have the backing of the Attorney General, who is advocating for the deregistration of several political parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Action Peoples Party (APP), Action Alliance (AA), Accord Party, and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).
In court filings, Fagbemi argued that the continued registration of these parties contravenes provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), claiming they fall short of the necessary requirements outlined by the law. He asserted that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is constitutionally obligated to enforce compliance with the statutory criteria for political party registration.
The rising political tensions surrounding the deregistration case reflect growing concerns ahead of future elections. Stakeholders caution that any measures seen as limiting political participation could heighten uncertainty and damage investor confidence in Nigeria’s democratic stability.
The situation continues to unfold, with many watching closely as it develops into a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s political trajectory.
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