Concerned Northern Nigeria stakeholders staged a peaceful protest at the Federal High Court in Abuja, raising alarm over what they described as growing threats to judicial independence and democratic governance.
Addressing journalists in Abuja during the demonstration, the group representative, Banky Sherrif said the protest, though peaceful, was driven by urgent concerns about the state of the nation’s democracy.
He warned that silence or inaction at this critical time could have lasting consequences for Nigeria’s constitutional order.
He called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to desist from any form of interference in the judiciary, insisting that courts must remain independent and not be used for political purposes.
According to him, any manipulation of the justice system would undermine public confidence and put the nation’s stability at risk.
They further stressed that democracy cannot thrive under intimidation or suppression of dissent, noting that a healthy political system depends on active opposition and open civic space. The group argued that attempts to weaken opposition parties reflect a lack of confidence and pose a danger to democratic principles.
The stakeholders also raised concerns about what they described as a creeping drift toward authoritarianism, warning that such a trend could erode national unity and destabilize the country if left unchecked.
On electoral integrity, they maintained that credible elections are impossible without a strong opposition, describing any attempt to sideline political actors as a threat to fairness and transparency.
He urged the Attorney General of the Federation to remain neutral and uphold the rule of law, cautioning against the use of the office for political interests.
The group also issued a strong warning to the judiciary, saying Nigerians are closely monitoring its actions.
According to the group, any compromise of judicial independence could weaken the rule of law, embolden impunity, and diminish public trust.
Expressing concern over alleged moves to use technicalities to weaken or deregister certain political parties, particularly those with strong Northern roots, the protesters said such actions could deepen divisions and spark unrest if not handled with due process.
They added that any perception of the judiciary as an extension of the executive arm would erode citizens’ faith in legal institutions, potentially pushing grievances onto the streets.
Reaffirming their commitment to peaceful engagement, the stakeholders said they would continue to defend democracy through lawful means, while remaining vigilant over government actions and judicial pronouncements.
The group concluded by urging all constitutional actors to uphold the rule of law, protect electoral integrity, and safeguard Nigeria’s democratic system.