ADC Chieftain Fires Back, Labels Justice Lifu ‘A Cheap Tool In The Hands Of Paymasters

A prominent member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, has accused Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court of acting in a manner that undermines opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

In a statement issued on Friday, Eze alleged that the judge was being influenced by politicians within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to weaken opposition forces.

According to him, efforts are being made to suppress political opposition ahead of the next presidential election.

“It is not a matter of insinuation, allegation, or blackmail. They do not want any opposition. The President is jittery and paranoid about the forthcoming presidential election,” Eze said.

He further questioned whether Justice Lifu would be willing to make similar orders against powerful figures within the government, citing the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, as an example.

“For instance, can Justice Peter Lifu make an order or reprimand anything Wike? Certainly not. That’s how bad it is,” he stated.

Eze also accused the judge of allowing himself to be used to target opposition parties.

“We understand the pressure on him, but must he carry out assignments for the APC at the expense of the judiciary’s integrity?” he asked.

The ADC chieftain further alleged that Justice Lifu ignored a directive from the Court of Appeal ordering a stay of proceedings in a case involving the proposed deregistration of some political parties.

He argued that the independence of the judiciary had been weakened over the years, citing past events involving former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Walter Onnoghen.

According to Eze, some judicial officers now act out of fear or political pressure rather than maintaining neutrality.

Eze Praises Appeal Court and INEC

Eze commended the Court of Appeal and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for challenging what he described as an improper judgment.

He alleged that the ultimate objective of such actions was to prevent the ADC’s expected presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, from participating effectively in the 2027 election.

“Though we know the target is to stop the ADC presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, from contesting in 2027, Nigerians are determined to ensure democratic choices prevail regardless of the obstacles,” he said.

He also praised the appellate court for halting the implementation of the disputed judgment and commended INEC for contesting the ruling that reportedly sought the deregistration of the ADC and four other political parties.

Eze concluded by calling on the National Judicial Council (NJC) to investigate Justice Lifu and take appropriate disciplinary action if necessary.

According to him, the judge should be held accountable for any actions that may have damaged public confidence in the judiciary or undermined the rule of law.