‘Judicial rascality’: CSOs, lawyers weigh in, demand crackdown on erring judges

Nigeria's judiciary is once again under scrutiny following a strong rebuke from the Court of Appeal against a Federal High Court judge. The appellate court overturned a ruling by Justice Peter Lifu that had ordered the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and four other political parties. The Court of Appeal not only nullified the judgment but also criticized Justice Lifu's conduct for disregarding a subsisting court order. This decision, delivered on July 28, 2026, has been widely seen as a reaffirmation of judicial discipline and due process. The case stemmed from a suit seeking the deregistration of ADC, Action Alliance, Action Peoples Party, Accord Party, and Zenith Labour Party, with Justice Lifu initially ruling they failed to meet constitutional requirements. The appellate court, however, found the suit to be incompetent. The ruling has reignited discussions about the implications of conflicting court decisions, particularly in politically sensitive matters that can shape the nation's democratic landscape. Critics argue that such judgments can frustrate the rule of law and undermine democratic processes, leading civil society organizations and lawyers to demand a crackdown on erring judges.

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justice is not achieved simply by delivering a judgment. Rather, it is attained when judges faithfully apply the law, respect judicial precedents and remain within the limits of their constitutional powers.