Amanze Chinonye
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has raised concerns over the recent judgment of the Federal High Court in Lokoja nullifying its earlier decision that led to the registration of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), warning that the ruling could deepen fears over shrinking democratic space ahead of the 2027 general elections, Prime Business Africa reports.
The rights group said although it respects the authority of the courts and the constitutional right of litigants to seek judicial redress, the circumstances surrounding the judgment have sparked concerns about the independence of democratic institutions, political plurality and the future of opposition politics in Nigeria.
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In a statement issued on Sunday, HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, said the controversy surrounding the NDC had evolved beyond a legal dispute into a matter of national democratic importance because of its implications for political inclusion, electoral competition and citizens’ constitutional rights to freely associate and participate in governance.
According to the group, the judgment comes at a time when Nigerians are grappling with economic hardship, worsening insecurity, rising unemployment and declining confidence in public institutions, making it imperative that democratic processes remain transparent and inclusive.
HURIWA said there is a growing perception that opposition politics is coming under increasing pressure ahead of the 2027 elections, warning that such concerns, whether justified or not, could erode public confidence if state institutions fail to demonstrate neutrality and strict adherence to constitutional principles.
“Democracy thrives when political competition is encouraged, citizens have multiple choices at the ballot box and institutions remain neutral arbiters in political disputes,” the group said, warning that public trust begins to erode when political outcomes are perceived to be influenced through judicial, administrative or other non-electoral means.
The association also stressed the need to preserve the integrity of the judiciary, describing the courts as the last line of defence against abuse of power. It warned that any perception of judicial processes being weaponised for political purposes could weaken constitutional democracy and public confidence in the justice system.
HURIWA further expressed concern over what it described as a growing atmosphere of uncertainty surrounding opposition politics, citing the increasing involvement of state institutions in politically sensitive matters and what it termed hostility towards emerging political platforms.
It called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to publicly reaffirm his commitment to multiparty democracy, political inclusion and free electoral competition, arguing that a government confident of its public support should have no reason to fear opposition parties or alternative political movements.
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The group also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remain neutral and ensure its decisions are guided solely by the Constitution and electoral laws, while calling on the National Judicial Council (NJC) to strengthen measures that promote judicial accountability, transparency and public trust.
HURIWA appealed to the international community, civil society organisations, political parties, youth groups and professional bodies to remain vigilant and continue supporting democratic principles through peaceful and constitutional means.
It maintained that the issues raised by the NDC judgment extend beyond the fate of a single political party and touch on the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process, the independence of public institutions and citizens’ constitutional right to freely choose their leaders.
The association urged all stakeholders to place national interest above partisan considerations and ensure that Nigeria’s democracy remains inclusive, competitive and credible as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
