The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has warned Nigerian courts to stop interfering in its internal party matters, saying the judiciary is slowly taking on the role of politicians.
The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, made this statement on Friday during an interview on Arise Television.
Reacting to a recent court verdict, Ememobong said the judgment showed the judge’s wisdom, noting that there is nowhere in the PDP constitution that provides for a national caretaker committee.
While stressing that he has great respect for the judiciary, he argued that courts should avoid meddling in party affairs to prevent losing public trust.
According to him, perception is very important in the justice system. He said there is growing public concern about the closeness between some judges and political office holders, even if no wrongdoing has been proven.
Ememobong cited an instance where the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court reportedly visited the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to request land and housing for judges. He said such public interactions, especially when sensitive political cases are involved, could create doubts in the minds of Nigerians.
He clarified that the PDP is not accusing any judge of corruption but is worried about public perception.
Ememobong concluded by reminding that in law, justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done.
