A former Second Republic politician, Alhaji Usman Yakubu Wushshi, has raised concerns about Nigeria’s judiciary and its role in safeguarding democratic processes, saying judiciary is meddling into the affairs of opposition parties.

Speaking in Minna, Niger State, Wushshi remarked: “Many Nigerians feel disillusioned with the judiciary, and this is worrying for our democracy. We must restore confidence in our institutions.” He stressed that conflicting judgments in recent years have weakened public trust.

Civil society groups have echoed similar sentiments. The Alliance for Democratic Rights (ADR) urged the Council of State to act in defense of democratic principles. “Section 83 of the Electoral Act makes clear that courts should not interfere in the internal affairs of political parties,” ADR stated, calling for adherence to the law.

Legal experts, including members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), have criticized recent decisions by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regarding party leadership listings. They argue that such actions may not align with the Electoral Act. Prominent voices within the legal community have described these developments as troubling for Nigeria’s democratic framework.

Observers note that upcoming cases involving the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC), scheduled for April 22, could serve as a litmus test for Nigeria’s democratic institutions ahead of the 2027 general elections. International observers are also monitoring the proceedings closely, viewing them as indicators of Nigeria’s democratic resilience.

Wushshi emphasized that the credibility of Nigeria’s judiciary is central to the country’s democratic future. “If citizens lose faith in the courts, the entire democratic process is at risk,” he said.