ADC hails NBA position, says ongoing legal actions violate electoral law

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has welcomed the position of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) on the ongoing leadership dispute within the party, describing it as a clear validation of its long-held stance that the law is being violated.

In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi on Saturday, the party said the NBA’s assertion that courts lack jurisdiction over internal affairs of political parties confirms that the legal actions challenging its leadership are fundamentally defective.

“The NBA’s position is clear and unambiguous: courts have no jurisdiction over the internal affairs of political parties, and any attempt to secure interim or interlocutory orders in such matters is in direct violation of the Electoral Act,” the statement said.

The ADC maintained that the current dispute is not a genuine legal contest but a calculated attempt to manipulate the judicial process for political purposes. It described the situation as “a coordinated effort to weaponize the judicial process,” noting that the NBA had similarly warned against abuse of court processes and forum shopping.

According to the party, such developments point to growing political tension, particularly as the country approaches the 2027 general elections. It alleged that certain actors were seeking to exploit legal mechanisms to weaken opposition platforms.

“This pattern reflects a deeper political anxiety within the ruling party… now determined to weaken or neutralize all viable opposition platforms ahead of the 2027 general elections,” ADC added.

The party stressed that any court orders obtained in violation of established legal provisions cannot stand, insisting that actions based on such rulings are inherently flawed.

The party also expressed concern over what it described as persistent attempts by “nefarious actors” to drag the courts into matters clearly outside their jurisdiction, while using such processes to create confusion around its leadership structure.

Commending the NBA for what it termed a “timely and principled intervention,” the ADC said the association’s warning to legal practitioners and judicial officers underscores the seriousness of the situation.

“We commend the NBA for its courage in calling out these practices and reaffirming that the rule of law must not be subordinated to political expediency,” Abdullahi said.

The party further called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to take note of the NBA’s position and avoid any action that could undermine its neutrality or lend legitimacy to what it described as unlawful judicial interference.

“INEC must remain a neutral arbiter, not a participant in political engineering,” the statement stressed.

The ADC warned that Nigeria’s democracy could be at risk if institutions fail to uphold the law, cautioning against a system where legal frameworks are disregarded and judicial processes manipulated for predetermined outcomes.

“The issue before us is bigger than the ADC. It is about the integrity of the democratic process itself,” the party stated.

Reaffirming its commitment to due process, the ADC said it would continue to pursue all lawful means to defend its leadership and safeguard democratic principles in the country. Authority.

Police unseal PDP headquarters

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced the reopening of its National Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, and Legacy House in Maitama, Abuja, following their unsealing by the in compliance with court orders.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Haruna Mohammed, said the facilities were formally handed over to the National Chairman, and the National Secretary.

The PDP commended the police for what it described as professionalism and adherence to due process. “This action is a clear demonstration of respect for constitutional order and the rule of law,” it stated.

The development comes amid recent internal disputes within the party, which had led to the sealing of the secretariat. The party, however, said the reopening signals a resolution of the crisis.

“This positive development reassures members that the recent challenges confronting the party have been effectively resolved,” the statement added.

The PDP leadership issued a stern warning against any actions capable of disrupting activities at the secretariat, emphasizing that security agencies have been placed on alert to deal with potential violators.

“All individuals and groups are advised to conduct themselves within the bounds of the law,” the party cautioned.

The party also called on aggrieved members to embrace reconciliation in the interest of unity and progress. “We urge all members to sheath their swords and work together for the collective interest of the party,” it said.

The statement further expressed appreciation to party leaders and stakeholders for their support during the crisis, with special recognition given to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, , described as the party’s national leader.

According to the PDP, Wike’s guidance and commitment played a significant role in stabilizing the party during the turbulent period.

Reaffirming its commitment to unity, the party said it is now focused on strengthening its structure ahead of future political engagements.

“Together, we move forward stronger, united, and more committed to our shared vision,” the statement concluded. Authority

FG names 48 individuals, groups in terrorism financing crackdown

The Federal Government of Nigeria has released the identities of 48 individuals and organisations allegedly linked to terrorism financing, intensifying its ongoing efforts to dismantle financial networks supporting extremist activities.

The list, published by the Nigeria Sanctions Committee, includes a mix of individuals and proscribed groups suspected of providing financial or logistical support to terrorist operations within and beyond Nigeria.

Among those named are: Abdulsamat Ohida; Mohammed Sani; Abdurrahman Abdurrahman; Fatima Ishaq; Tukur Mamu; Yusuf Ghazali; Muhammad Sani; Abubakar Muhammad; Sallamudeen Hassan; Adamu Ishak; Hassana Isah Musa; AbdulKareem Umar; Abdullahi; Abdurrahman Ado; Bashir Yusuf Alhassan; Ibrahim; Muhammad Isah; Salihu Adamu; Surajo Mohammad Fannami Bukar; Musa; Muhammed Sahabi Ismail; Mohammed Buba.

Also listed are several groups, including Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina Fi Biladis Sudan (Ansaru), Islamic State West Africa Province, and Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), alongside other entities identified as “Yan Group” and related factions.

Additional individuals named include: Adamu Hassan; Hassan Mohammed; Usman Abubakar; Kubara Salawu; Rabiu Suleiman; Simon Njoku; Godstime Iyare; Francis Mmadubuchi John; Onwumere Chukwuka; Eze Edwin; Chukwuedo; Chiwendu Owoh; Ginika Orji; Awo Uchechukwu Mercy; Ali; Ohagwu Juliana Okpoto; Eze Nwaobi Chimezie; and Ogumu Kewe.

Authorities say the publication is part of a broader strategy to identify and disrupt funding channels linked to terrorism, enabling financial institutions and security agencies to freeze assets, monitor suspicious transactions, and prevent further financing of violent activities.

The government подчеркed that inclusion on the list does not replace judicial processes, noting that investigations are ongoing and affected persons or entities may be subject to further legal action in line with due process.

Security experts view the move as a significant step in Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts, particularly in targeting the financial backbone of insurgency and organised violent groups.

More details are expected as the Nigeria Sanctions Committee continues its investigation and enforcement actions. Starnews

NEC postpones nationwide voter revalidation until after 2027 polls

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has postponed the proposed nationwide voter revalidation exercise until after the 2027 general elections.

Mr Mohammed Haruna, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, disclosed this in a statement on Friday.

Haruna, who did not state reasons for the postponement, said the decision was taken at the commission’s meeting in Abuja.

“Following deliberations, the commission resolved to postpone the exercise until after the 2027 general elections,” he said.

He described voter revalidation as a critical component of INEC’s mandate to maintain a credible and up-to-date National Register of Voters.

According to him, the exercise is designed to verify and review existing voter records, ensure the accuracy of personal data, eliminate duplicate and ineligible entries, and strengthen the integrity of the voter register.

He added that it would also provide registered voters the opportunity to confirm their details and make necessary corrections where required.

Haruna reaffirmed INEC’s commitment to conducting free, fair, credible and inclusive elections.

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AFCON 2025 Final Referee Dropped From World Cup Officiating Squad

The omission of Jean-Jacques Ndala from Africa’s officiating list for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has created fresh debate across the football community.
Ndala, who was at the centre of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Final 2025, did not make the shortlist released by FIFA for the tournament set to be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico between June 11 and July 19, 2026.

FIFA named seven centre referees, ten assistant referees and two VAR officials from Africa for the global competition. However, Ndala’s absence has raised eyebrows, coming just months after he officiated one of the most controversial finals in recent AFCON history.

The final, played in Morocco, ended in confusion after tensions boiled over on the pitch. Players from Senegal staged a protest, briefly walking off during the match, which had to be paused before it eventually resumed. Senegal had initially secured a 1–0 victory, but the result was later overturned following a decision by Confederation of African Football, handing Morocco the win.

Beyond Ndala, other notable referees left out of the World Cup list include Issa Sy and Boubou Traoré.

Meanwhile, the selected African officials were drawn from countries such as Algeria, Egypt, Gabon, Morocco, Mauritania, South Africa, Cameroon, Angola and Somalia, with Egypt having the highest number of representatives”
GWG

Don’t truncate Democracy through judicial manipulation, NBA warns courts, lawyers

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has cautioned judges and legal practitioners against actions that may truncate democracy in Nigeria.

The Association particularly frowned at the meddling in the internal affairs of political parties by courts and lawyers.

The warning was contained in a statement released on Friday and signed by the President of the NBA, Nazi Adam Osigwe.

Below is the full text of the statement:

OUR LAWS AND DEMOCRACY MUST BE PROTECTED AT ALL TIMES

The Nigerian Bar Association has closely monitored recent political and legal developments as the nation gradually approaches the 2027 General Elections. These developments, particularly those arising from the interpretation and potential application of provisions of the Electoral Act 2026, raise serious constitutional, democratic, and rule-of-law concerns that require immediate intervention.

We particularly deprecate the disturbing involvement by lawyers and courts in the internal affairs of political parties despite the clear provisions of the Electoral Act, 2026, which stipulates in Section 83 of the Act that “No court in Nigeria shall entertain jurisdiction over any suit or matter pertaining to the internal affairs of a political party.”

Not only are courts denied jurisdiction to entertain any matter pertaining to the internal affairs of a political party, but they are also precluded from granting any interim or interlocutory injunction even where any action has been brought in violation of the Act. The section further provides that “Where such an action is brought in negation of this provision, no interim or interlocutory injunction shall be entertained by the Court, but the Court shall suspend its ruling and deliver it at the stage of final judgment and shall give accelerated hearing to the matter”.

What we now see are situations where actions are not only instituted in Courts by lawyers in clear violation of the Act, but Courts purportedly grant interim and/or interlocutory injunctions in clear contempt of statutory provisions of the law. This does not augur well for our democracy. Democracy will not thrive in a situation where lawyers and courts take actions and decisions that not only negate our laws but also do violence to them. This emerging trend of subverting the clear letters of the Electoral Act and dragging courts into the internal affairs of political parties through disingenuous litigation, forum shopping, and malafide applications designed to secure undemocratic political advantage, bodes no good for our democracy. Such practices, if not immediately curbed, would directly contradict the clear intendment of the Electoral Act and risk transforming the judicial processes into avenues for political score-settling or electoral manipulation.

We must reiterate that these provisions were clearly designed to curb abuse of court processes and discourage forum shopping in political disputes. This is therefore why the NBA is concerned that the abuse, misapplication, or selective deployment of these provisions may create opportunities for manipulation capable of undermining democratic competition and shrinking the political space.

Members of the Bar are reminded that they are Ministers in the Temple of Justice and not political agents seeking judicial endorsement of partisan objectives. The filing of actions intended to draw courts into internal political party disputes, particularly where jurisdiction is expressly excluded, constitutes an abuse of court process and a violation of professional responsibility.

The NBA will take firm steps to deter such conduct. Lawyers who deliberately file actions aimed at procuring judicial interference in intra-party affairs, or who seek ex parte or interlocutory orders in clear violation of statutory provisions, risk facing disciplinary proceedings. We will not hesitate to present petitions before the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) against any Legal Practitioner found to be engaging in such conduct. This will be pursued decisively to serve as a deterrent and to preserve the sanctity of the judicial process.

The Nigerian judiciary must stay vigilant and resist being drawn into political theatrics. Courts should firmly decline invitations, no matter how artfully crafted, to intervene in matters the law explicitly bars them from. When statutes limit judicial meddling in party affairs, judges must show restraint, adhere to the law, and focus on cases properly before them.

We call on the National Judicial Council to make regulations that will sanction any judge who knowingly assumes jurisdiction in matters clearly barred by law, grants orders in respect of intra-party disputes in violation of statutory provisions, or lends the authority of the court to partisan political maneuvering. The NBA will not shy away from drawing the NJC’s attention to the actions of any judicial officer found to have acted in a manner inconsistent with the judicial oath, constitutional responsibilities, and the preservation of public confidence in the courts. The NBA will not hesitate to activate its constitutional responsibility to protect the integrity of the justice system.

The NBA calls on the Independent National Electoral Commission to exercise its expanded supervisory powers with utmost neutrality, independence, and fidelity to democratic values. The Commission must not, under any circumstances, be perceived as a participant in political engineering or as an institution whose regulatory authority is deployed in a manner that weakens political pluralism.

The Chairman of INEC, being a distinguished Professor of Law and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, is uniquely positioned to appreciate the constitutional implications of these developments. The NBA expects that the Commission, under his leadership, will ensure that its actions reflect independence, fairness, and strict adherence to democratic norms. The Bar is closely watching the conduct of the Commission and expects that its regulatory role will strengthen, not diminish, confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process.

The Bar will deploy all lawful mechanisms, engagement, advisory opinions, strategic litigation, and disciplinary processes, to ensure that lawyers do not weaponize the legal process so that the judiciary is not misused. Lawyers must remain officers of the court, not architects of procedural manipulation. Nigeria’s democracy must not be weakened by legal maneuvering, institutional capture, or the misuse of judicial authority. The courts must remain arbiters of justice, not instruments of political advantage. Electoral institutions must remain neutral umpires, not participants in political contests.

The electoral institutions must operate within the bounds of constitutional democracy.

MAZI AFAM OSIGWE, SAN
PRESIDENT NBA.

Sunrisereporters.

AFCON 2025 Final Referee dropped from World Cup officiating squad

AFCON 2025 Final Referee, Jean-Jacques Ndala will not officiate in the upcoming FIFA World Cup.

Beyond Ndala, other notable referees left out of the World Cup list include Issa Sy and Boubou Traoré.

Governor Idris, Emir of Zuru eulogise Late Kebbi Speaker

Comrade Governor, Nasir Idris of Kebbi State and the Emir of Zuru, Alhaji Muhammad Sanusi Mika’ilu Sami Gomo lll were totally on the same page about the late Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Muhammadu Usman Ankwe’s dedication to the service of God and humanity during his lifetime.

The occasion was a condolence visit to the family of the Late Speaker by Comrade Governor Nasir Idris, accompanied by the Emir of Zuru, Alhaji Muhammad Sanusi Mika’ilu Sami Gomo lll at the deceased residence in Zuru, shortly after the late speaker was laid to rest, on Thursday.

Comrade Nasir Idris disclosed that the sacrifices and contributions made by the late speaker to the successes achieved by his administration were unmeasurable.

“His loyalty to the government was total, his commitment to the implementation of the government’s developmental programmes especially economic empowerment related programmes for the people were uncommon”

He further revealed that that the state government had done done whatever is humanly possible to save his life, including sponsorship for his medical treatment at Saudi Arabia, London, India, and eventually Egypt, where he finally answered Allah’s call.

Governor Idris reiterated that he has lost a confidant, trustworthy, and supportive Lieutenant very hard to come by. He prayed for God’s forgiveness and bountiful rewards for the deceased services to humanity and assured the family of sustained adequate support to underscores the government’s acknowledgement and appreciation for the ” late elder stateman’s patriotic and selfless services to the people during his lifetime ”

Responding on behalf of the family and indeed the people of Zuru emirate, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi described the late speaker as a humble, focused, and generous leader whose relentless humanitarian services touched the lives of the people, particularly the vulnerable and the community at large.

The Emir stated that with the support of the late speaker, the people of Zuru emirate have visibly benefited from Governor Nasir Idris’s administration in the critical sectors of development specifically roads, ultra-modern educational institutions, health care delivery and economic empowerment programmes.

” Let me express the appreciation of the people of Zuru emirate for the transformation of the emirate and assure the Governor of our resolution to pay back at the appropriate time”

Court sentences 11 Boko Haram members to up to 60 years imprisonment

The Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced 11 members of the extremist group Boko Haram to prison terms ranging from 40 to 60 years for terrorism-related offences.

Delivering judgment, Justice Obiora Egwuatu held that the convictions were based on the defendants’ confessional statements and guilty pleas in open court. He ruled that the law permits courts to convict without requiring further proof once an accused person admits guilt.

The convicts Musa Mustapha, Ali Mohammed, Babagana Ali, Abacha Abba, Ali Abbagana Umar, Kadi Agwala, Yahaya Umara, Alhaji Ari, Goni Mustapha, Ali Modu, and Alhaji Fannaya were found guilty of offences including membership in a proscribed organisation and providing logistical support to terrorist activities.

The court ordered that their sentences run concurrently from the date of arrest. It also directed that the convicts undergo rehabilitation and de-radicalisation programmes after serving their jail terms.

Among those convicted: Alhaji Fannaya received 20 years imprisonment on each of four counts after pleading guilty to multiple charges.

Abacha Abba was sentenced to 20 years on each of three counts, including transporting weapons and undergoing terrorist training.

Ali Babagana Umar and Kadi Agwala were each handed 20-year sentences on two counts related to aiding the group.

In a separate case, Justice Peter Lifu sentenced Ali Kolo to nine years imprisonment for failing to report terrorist activities, despite acknowledging that he had been shot by insurgents while attempting to alert authorities.

The court ruled that although Kolo failed in his legal duty to report, his circumstances were beyond his control. Since he had already spent over a decade in detention, the judge ordered his immediate release.

Similarly, Ibrahim Buba, a bricklayer from Borno State, was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment for withholding information about terrorist activities. He admitted knowing members of the group but fleeing the state instead of reporting them to authorities.

The prosecution, led by government counsel David Kaswe, relied on provisions of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, which mandates citizens to disclose information about terrorist operations to security agencies.

The rulings underscore the judiciary’s continued enforcement of anti-terrorism laws, while also highlighting considerations of fairness and circumstance in sentencing.

Starnews

How David Mark, Aregbesola hijacked ADC – Abejide

A member of the House of Representatives representing Yagba Federal Constituency in Kogi State, Leke Abejide, has faulted the process through which the David Mark-led leadership emerged in the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

He claimed that some prominent politicians have hijacked the ADC amid the party’s deepening leadership crisis.

The lawmaker made the allegation on Thursday during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today.

When asked to clarify the identities of the “hijackers,” he said, “Former Senate President David Mark, former Governor of Osun State, Rauf Aregbesola, and the rest.”

He pointed out that proper consultation with existing party members was not carried out before the Mark leadership emerged.

“If you want to come to a party, and it is not a fresh one, you should know that some people are there. Why don’t you meet with them first and discuss?” he said.

Asked whether he had ever held meetings with key figures reportedly involved in the coalition, including Atiku Abubakar, Rotimi Amaechi, and Peter Obi, Abejide responded, “No, I have never met with them. None of them has ever met me.”

The lawmaker also dismissed suggestions that he was sidelined because he was perceived as a “sellout,” stating, “I am not a sellout. It is not because they didn’t consult me; let us do things according to the law. This party cannot be destroyed.”

Citing the ADC constitution, Abejide argued that the appointments of Mark and others violated established rules.

He maintained that those who assumed leadership positions had not fulfilled these requirements at the time.

“As at the time they sat on their seats, they had not registered in their wards. They were not members of the ADC as at the time they took over,” he said.

“What they ought to have done is to allow them to come in, then write to INEC, give 21 days’ notice for a national convention, and amend the constitution properly… By then, nobody can go to court. But that was not the case; they immediately took over that day as if the election were tomorrow,” he stated.

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