A civil society organisation, Tap Initiative for Citizens’ Development, has formally petitioned the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, and the National Judicial Council (NJC), seeking an investigation into the conduct of Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court, Abuja Division.
The group is questioning a recent judgment by Justice Lifu that reportedly ordered the deregistration of several political parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Accord Party, Action Peoples Party (APP), Action Alliance (AA), and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).
In a petition dated June 16, 2026, the organisation alleged that the ruling was delivered despite the existence of ongoing appellate proceedings on the same matter before the Court of Appeal.
According to Tap Initiative, an appeal identified as CA/ABJ/CV/569/2026 was already pending before the appellate court, which had allegedly issued an Enrolment Order staying proceedings in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2637/2025—the case in which Justice Lifu later delivered judgment.
The group argued that proceeding with the judgment under such circumstances raises serious concerns about judicial procedure, constitutional compliance, and respect for the authority of higher courts.
“The situation raises profound constitutional and procedural concerns, as it appears that a valid order of stay and active appellate proceedings were in force at the material time,” the petition stated.
Tap Initiative warned that if it is established that the Federal High Court acted in disregard of a subsisting appellate order, it could undermine public trust in the judiciary and weaken confidence in the rule of law.
The organisation maintained that the integrity of Nigeria’s judicial system depends on strict adherence to due process, judicial discipline, and respect for the hierarchy of courts.
It further alleged that the decision may conflict with provisions of the Code of Conduct for Judicial Officers, which require judges to uphold fairness, diligence, impartiality, and conduct capable of sustaining public confidence in the judiciary.
Beyond the legal implications, the group expressed concern over the potential impact of the ruling on Nigeria’s democratic process, especially as preparations begin for the 2026 off-cycle governorship elections and the 2027 general elections.
According to the organisation, political parties remain vital democratic institutions through which citizens exercise their constitutional rights to political participation and representation. It warned that decisions affecting their existence could have far-reaching consequences for millions of Nigerians.
“Any judicial action that significantly alters their participation in the electoral process inevitably affects not only the parties themselves but also the democratic rights of citizens who rely on them for political expression,” the group stated.
Tap Initiative therefore called on the NJC to urgently determine whether Justice Lifu acted contrary to judicial conduct rules and whether disciplinary measures are warranted.
The organisation also urged the council to reaffirm the authority of appellate courts and strengthen accountability within the judiciary.
Commending Justice Kekere-Ekun’s commitment to judicial accountability and ethical standards, the group said the matter presents an opportunity to reinforce public confidence in Nigeria’s justice system.
“The judiciary remains the last hope of the common citizen. Its legitimacy is sustained not only by constitutional authority but by unwavering public confidence in its fairness, discipline, and respect for the rule of law,” the petition added.
The petition was signed by Mbasekei Martin Obono, Executive Director of Tap Initiative for Citizens’ Development.
As of the time of filing this report, Justice Lifu, the Federal High Court, and the National Judicial Council had not publicly responded to the allegations.
