BY GODWIN OBI
A faction of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) led by Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has rejected a judgment delivered by the Federal Capital Territory High Court, describing the ruling as illegal and a threat to Nigeria’s democratic process.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the faction’s National Publicity Secretary, Ladipo Johnson, faulted the decision delivered by Justice Bello Kawu, arguing that the court acted outside its jurisdiction.
According to the party, the court sitting in the Federal Capital Territory lacked the authority to review or overturn a decision of a High Court in Abia State, stressing that such action contravenes established legal principles and judicial hierarchy.
The faction further claimed that the case was filed by expelled members allegedly aligned with Boniface Aniebonam, accusing them of attempting to destabilise the party ahead of the 2027 Nigerian general election.
It also noted that the matter was already pending before the Court of Appeal in Owerri, Imo State, describing the FCT High Court’s decision to entertain the suit as a violation of the sub judice rule.
The NNPP faction further raised concerns about what it described as a breach of fair hearing, alleging that it was not properly served with court processes.
According to the statement, substituted service was carried out at an address not recognised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Describing the ruling as a “judicial travesty,” the faction warned that such judgments could undermine public confidence in the judiciary and cast doubt on the credibility of future elections, particularly the 2027 polls.
Despite the development, the party expressed confidence in the appellate courts, noting that it had already begun the process of challenging the ruling.
“The NNPP remains resolute and will pursue all legal avenues to overturn this miscarriage of justice,” the statement said.
The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Apo, Abuja, presided over by Justice Bello Kawu, had earlier ruled on the prolonged leadership crisis within the NNPP, ordering the Independent National Electoral Commission to recognise and upload the National Working Committee led by Agbo Gilbert Major.
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