NDC presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, has criticised the Federal High Court’s decision to deregister some political parties, describing it as a threat to public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic and judicial institutions.
In a statement posted on his X handle, Obi warned against what he called the growing politicisation of institutions that should remain independent and free from political influence.
Reacting to the ruling that deregistered some political parties, including the ADC, Obi said countries succeed when institutions are stronger than individuals and politics. He argued that the judgment against the ADC and other parties would further weaken public trust in Nigeria’s legal system and should be reversed.
“We must never sacrifice our sacred institutions on the altar of politics. Nations rise when institutions are stronger than individuals,” he said.
Obi recalled raising concerns during the controversy over the removal of former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Walter Onnoghen. He said the biggest harm from such actions is often the perception they create about the sanctity and independence of national institutions.
According to him, strong economies are built on trust. While investors can deal with security, policy and market risks, he said they are often discouraged by uncertainty around the rule of law and concerns about judicial interference.
“Today, many Nigerians have lost confidence in systems that should protect them, because businesses increasingly request that their contracts be governed by foreign jurisdictions because they have greater confidence in those institutions than in our own.”
The former Anambra governor pledged to restore the dignity, independence and integrity of the judiciary. He stressed that justice must remain impartial, accessible and respected by all citizens.
He also urged judges, senior advocates, lawyers and other legal professionals to defend the rule of law and strengthen democratic institutions in the country.
