SAN urges the federal government to let the rule of law trump political desperation.

By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Musibau Adetunmbi has called on the Federal Government to put the rule of law above political expediency, warning that a frantic pursuit of power could erode democratic institutions and governance.

Adetunmbi, the lead counsel for the Accord Party, made the remarks during a Wednesday interview on Frontline, a current affairs programme on Eagle 102.5 FM in Ilese‑Ijebu, Ogun State.

He emphasized that respect for the rule of law is essential to Nigeria’s democratic stability.

“First and foremost, the current Federal Government should please not be too desperate about power. They should allow the rule of law to prevail,” he said.

The comments came after Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court, Abuja, ordered the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the Accord Party and three other political parties for allegedly failing to meet constitutional requirements.

The Court of Appeal, however, halted the execution of that judgment on Tuesday, granting a stay pending the outcome of appeals filed against the ruling.

Responding to the development, Adetunmbi said the Accord Party would continue to seek justice through lawful channels.

He noted that the appellate court had suspended enforcement of the judgment until June 25, when a hearing on the substantive appeal is expected.

Speaking about the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the SAN said the body should not be perceived as favoring any political party.

“I will not say INEC is throwing its weight behind our party. INEC is throwing its weight behind the justice of the matter,” he said.

He added that INEC’s constitutional powers over party registration and deregistration must be exercised strictly within legal limits, particularly when matters are before the courts.

Adetunmbi also defended the judiciary, noting that while isolated cases of misconduct exist, most judicial officers remain committed to delivering justice.

“We have many honest jurists at all levels of our courts… but just like every institution, there are a few bad eggs,” he said.

He expressed concern over the growing number of political cases before the courts, warning that they may crowd out criminal and civil matters involving ordinary citizens.

He noted that many detainees are still awaiting trial, while political disputes continue to receive accelerated judicial attention.

Adetunmbi said that what is often described as disobedience of court orders is, in many cases, a disagreement over legal interpretation rather than deliberate defiance.

He also acknowledged infrastructural and administrative challenges facing the judiciary, noting that many court facilities are in poor condition.

Nevertheless, the SAN maintained that the National Judicial Council (NJC) has mechanisms for monitoring and disciplining judges through petitions, oversight, and performance reviews, stressing that due process must always be observed.

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