The Youth Wing of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has officially submitted a formal petition to the National Judicial Council (NJC), demanding immediate intervention and justice regarding the conduct of Hon. Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court.
The petition explicitly calls for the immediate recusal of Justice Lifu from handling any ongoing legal matters involving the political party, citing deep-seated concerns over alleged bias, procedural irregularities, and actions that the youth wing claims compromise the integrity of the judiciary.
Key Grievances Raised in the Petition
- Allegations of Judicial Bias: The youth wing asserted that recent rulings and interlocutory orders emanating from the judge’s court indicate a worrying lack of neutrality in matters affecting the party’s leadership and internal democratic processes.
- Call for Recusal: The petitioners argue that to preserve the sanctity of the courtroom and ensure a fair hearing, Justice Lifu must honorably step down from the case and transfer the file back to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court for reassignment.
- Preserving Democratic Institutions: The ADC youths emphasized that political stability in Nigeria relies heavily on an independent and transparent judiciary that refuses to be manipulated by external interests.
“We are taking this bold step because the judiciary remains the last hope of the common man and the ultimate custodian of our democracy. Justice must not only be done, it must be seen to be done. We urge the NJC to investigate these matters swiftly to restore total confidence in our courts.”
The petition adds to growing public scrutiny surrounding political litigations in Nigeria, with the ADC youth wing vowing to peacefully utilize all constitutional channels to safeguard the party’s institutional independence and ensure equity.
