Group Calls on NJC to Investigate and Sanction Justice Lifu Over Alleged Disregard of Appellate Court Order Regarding ADC Deregistration and Others

Alex Enumah in Abuja

The National Judicial Council (NJC) has been urged to investigate Justice Peter Lifu after he delivered a judgment that the Court of Appeal had already taken up.

The criticism stems from the alleged disregard of the court hierarchy, which could undermine the judiciary and democracy as Nigeria heads toward the 2027 general election.

On Monday, Justice Lifu ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister five political parties, citing their alleged breach of Section 225(A) of the Constitution.

He reportedly issued the judgment despite a stay of proceedings issued on 22 May by the Abuja division of the Court of Appeal.

The decision has attracted sharp criticism, with many accusing the judge of eroding democratic principles.

In response, a civil‑society group operating under the Tap Initiative for FOR Citizens’ Development called on the judiciary’s leadership to launch an immediate investigation of Justice Lifu on Tuesday.

The group’s statement, signed by Executive Director Mbasekei Martin Obono, requests that the NJC:

• Determine whether the decision was made in disregard of pending appellate proceedings and an existing stay order;
• Examine possible breaches of the judicial code of conduct;
• Take appropriate disciplinary action if misconduct is established; and
• Reaffirm the authority of appellate courts and the supremacy of due process within the judiciary.

The group reminded that Chief Justice Kudirat Kekere‑Ekun has consistently called for accountability, discipline, and ethical conduct within the judiciary.

Having formally submitted a petition to the CJN in her capacity as Chairman of the NJC, Tap Initiative notes that the petition offers a chance to reinforce these principles and demonstrate that judicial independence can coexist with accountability.

“Tap Initiative expresses grave concern that at the time the judgment was delivered, there were active appellate proceedings before the Court of Appeal in Appeal No. CA/ABJ/CV/569/2026. Furthermore, the Court of Appeal had issued an Enrolment Order granting a stay of proceedings in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2637/2025, the very case in which the Federal High Court subsequently delivered judgment.”

“This development raises profound constitutional and procedural concerns, as it appears that a valid stay order and active appellate proceedings were in force at the material time. If established, this situation would constitute a serious affront to the doctrine of judicial hierarchy and the supervisory jurisdiction of the Court of Appeal within Nigeria’s constitutional order.”

“Tap Initiative emphasizes that the integrity of Nigeria’s justice system depends fundamentally on strict adherence to judicial hierarchy, procedural discipline, and respect for appellate authority. Any deviation from these principles risks creating conflicting judicial outcomes, eroding legal certainty, and undermining public confidence in the courts,” the statement added.

The group underscored that the judiciary remains the last hope of the common citizen, and its legitimacy relies not only on constitutional authority but also on unwavering public confidence in its fairness, discipline and respect for the rule of law.

Accordingly, it called on the NJC to treat the matter with the urgency and seriousness it deserves in the interest of justice, democracy and national stability.