Abuja: The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) has expressed approval of the recent Court of Appeal judgment that overturned the Federal High Court’s decision to proscribe five registered political parties. A statement from the IPAC National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Martins Egbeola, noted that the judgment is a reinforcement of democracy and adherence to the rule of law.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Egbeola referred to the appellate court’s ruling as a reaffirmation of constitutional democracy, the rule of law, and Nigeria’s multiparty democratic system. The council emphasized that the judgment restores confidence in the judiciary as the ultimate refuge for the common man and reaffirms the constitutional guarantees for political engagement.
IPAC highlighted that the decision strengthens stakeholders’ confidence in Nigeria’s democratic project and reassures citizens that democracy and constitutional governance are well-protected. The council underscored the importance of respecting constitutional provisions and ensuring that judicial pronouncements are based strictly on legal principles and facts.
“As the umbrella body of registered political parties, we have consistently maintained that democracy thrives when constitutional provisions are respected and judicial decisions remain grounded in the law,” the statement added.
IPAC commended the Court of Appeal for demonstrating the crucial role of appellate courts in safeguarding constitutionalism and correcting judicial errors that threaten democratic institutions. The council praised the justices for their sound judgment, which upholds constitutional democracy and the rule of law.
Reiterating its call on the National Judicial Council (NJC), IPAC urged for ongoing efforts to improve the judiciary through thorough investigations of questionable judgments. The council emphasized the need to focus particularly on judicial officers in lower courts whose decisions appear inconsistent with constitutional provisions and judicial standards.
“Identifying and appropriately dealing with judicial officers whose decisions generate constitutional crises or political tensions will strengthen public confidence in the administration of justice,” IPAC stated.
The council advocated for proactive measures to reduce the burden on superior courts, minimize unnecessary litigation, and prevent future occurrences that might destabilize Nigeria’s democratic process. It described the judiciary as a sacred institution of democracy, emphasizing that judicial independence should be matched with accountability and a commitment to justice.
IPAC called on all stakeholders to remain steadfast in defending democratic values, respecting constitutional institutions, and supporting reforms that enhance Nigeria’s justice delivery system and democratic governance. “Together, we can continue to deepen democracy and build a nation where justice, equity, and the rule of law prevail,” the council concluded.