Kwankwasiyya Movement raises alarm over conflicting court rulings, urges judicial reforms

The Kwankwasiyya Movement has expressed concern over what it described as a disturbing pattern of judicial pronouncements across Nigeria, warning that conflicting court decisions could undermine the country’s democratic stability.

In a statement issued on Thursday, March 19, 2026, and signed by its spokesperson, Dr. Habibu Sale Mohammed, the group cited a recent judgment by Justice Bello Kawu of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Abuja, involving the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), as part of a growing trend of controversial rulings.

The movement said such decisions are not isolated incidents but reflect an escalating pattern where judicial actions appear to overstep constitutional boundaries, create conflicting orders, and raise concerns about neutrality, due process, and adherence to the rule of law.

According to the statement, similar judicial interventions have been witnessed in the internal affairs of major political parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), and African Democratic Congress (ADC), often resulting in confusion and deepening factional disputes.

It further noted concerns over courts of coordinate jurisdiction issuing conflicting rulings on similar matters and, in some cases, entertaining cases already before appellate courts, describing the situation as a threat to legal consistency and procedural integrity.

The group warned that the trend is fueling perceptions that elements within the judiciary are being drawn into political contests, thereby weakening public confidence in the institution.

“This is a dangerous trajectory for any democracy, particularly as the country prepares for critical electoral contests,” the statement said.

The Kwankwasiyya Movement cautioned that if left unchecked, the development could erode trust in democratic institutions, heighten political tensions, and undermine the credibility of future elections.

It called on opposition parties to unite in resisting any perceived abuse of the judiciary, stressing that safeguarding the rule of law is a national imperative rather than a partisan issue.

The group also urged stakeholders to explore lawful and peaceful measures, including civil society engagement and public advocacy, to defend democratic values.

It specifically called on the National Judicial Council (NJC) to urgently review the situation and address concerns surrounding conflicting and controversial court decisions.

The movement further advised judicial officers to uphold professionalism and adhere strictly to principles of fairness, due process, and constitutional order, while cautioning political actors against resorting to forum shopping and judicial manipulation in party disputes.

Reaffirming its commitment to democratic ideals, the group stated that Nigeria’s judiciary must remain a pillar of justice and not a source of uncertainty.

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