By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta
A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Mr. Musibau Adetunmbi, has urged the Federal Government to prioritise the rule of law over political considerations, warning that desperation for power could weaken democratic institutions and governance.
Adetunmbi, who is lead counsel to the Accord Party, made the call on Wednesday during an interview on Frontline, a current affairs programme on Eagle 102.5 FM, Ilese-Ijebu, Ogun State.
He stressed that respect for the rule of law remains fundamental 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.
His comments come days after Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court, Abuja, ordered the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Accord Party and three other political parties for allegedly failing to meet constitutional requirements.
However, the Court of Appeal on Tuesday halted the execution of the judgment, granting a stay of execution pending the determination of appeals filed against the ruling.
Reacting to the development, Adetunmbi said the Accord Party would continue to pursue justice through lawful means.
He noted that the appellate court had suspended enforcement of the judgment until June 25, when hearing on the substantive appeal is expected.
Speaking on the role of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the SAN said the commission should not be seen as favouring 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 political party registration and deregistration must be exercised strictly within legal limits, especially 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 justice delivery.
“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 rising number of political cases before the courts, warning that they may be crowding 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 also 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 further acknowledged infrastructural and administrative challenges facing the judiciary, noting that many court facilities are in poor condition.
The SAN, however, maintained that the National Judicial Council (NJC) has mechanisms in place for monitoring and disciplining judges through petitions, oversight, and performance reviews, stressing that due process must always be observed.
