Mabel Oboh, the South-South Zonal Publicity Secretary for the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has raised concerns that the judiciary taking over the administration of political parties could harm Nigeria’s democracy. Her comments followed a Court of Appeal ruling that blocked the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from acknowledging state congresses held under the caretaker leadership of Senator David Mark.
In a statement, Oboh acknowledged the necessity of the judiciary in maintaining the rule of law but argued that judicial intervention must be restricted. She insisted that courts should focus on ensuring compliance with laws rather than managing internal party functions. Oboh urged a national dialogue regarding the distinction between judicial oversight and the independence of political parties.
The spokesperson noted that while the judiciary is vital, it must exercise restraint. She argued that political parties need the autonomy to manage their internal affairs based on their own constitutions. According to Oboh, judicial intervention should be a last resort used only when there are clear violations of the Constitution or the Electoral Act. If processes are found to be illegal, she suggested that courts should order new elections rather than assuming administrative control over party offices.
Citing legal precedents such as Onuoha v. Okafor and APC v. Marafa, Oboh stated that Nigerian courts have historically recognized the need to protect party autonomy. She concluded that the stability of Nigeria’s democratic system depends on finding a balance where the judiciary upholds the law without interfering in the internal democratic mechanisms of political organizations.
