The Kwankwasiyya Movement has raised concerns over what it describes as a growing wave of conflicting judicial decisions across Nigeria, warning that the trend could undermine democratic stability and weaken public trust in the country’s legal system.
In a statement issued on Thursday, March 19, 2026, and signed by its spokesperson, Dr. Habibu Sale Mohammed, the group referenced a recent ruling by Justice Bello Kawu of the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja involving the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), describing it as part of a broader pattern of controversial court decisions.
The movement said the development is not an isolated case but reflects a recurring issue in which judicial pronouncements appear to stretch constitutional limits, produce conflicting orders, and raise questions about neutrality, due process, and adherence to the rule of law.
It also pointed to similar judicial interventions in disputes within major political parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), and African Democratic Congress (ADC), noting that such rulings often deepen internal divisions and create confusion.
According to the statement, conflicting judgments from courts of coordinate jurisdiction, as well as cases being entertained despite being before appellate courts, pose a serious threat to legal consistency and procedural integrity.
The group warned that such developments are increasingly creating the perception that elements within the judiciary are being drawn into political contests, a situation it said could erode 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 the situation persists, it could damage trust in democratic institutions, heighten political tensions, and weaken the credibility of future elections.
It urged opposition parties to come together to resist any perceived abuse of the judiciary, stressing that protecting the rule of law is a national responsibility rather than a partisan issue.
The group also called on stakeholders to adopt lawful and peaceful approaches, including civil society engagement and public advocacy, to defend democratic values.
In addition, it appealed to the National Judicial Council (NJC) to urgently review the situation and address concerns surrounding conflicting and controversial rulings.
The movement further advised judicial officers to uphold professionalism, fairness, due process, and constitutional order, while warning political actors against engaging in forum shopping or manipulating the judiciary in party-related disputes.
Reaffirming its commitment to democratic principles, the group stressed that the judiciary must remain a pillar of justice and not become a source of uncertainty in Nigeria.
