By George Mgbeleke

Prominent pro-democracy and civil rights advocacy group, Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) strongly condemns what it describes as the growing and disturbing pattern of judicial interference in the internal affairs of political parties, warning that such actions pose a grave danger to Nigeria’s democracy and the rule of law.

HURIWA expressed deep concern over what it perceives as attempts by certain actors within the judiciary to undermine political pluralism, stressing that the courts must not be seen—under any circumstances—as instruments for advancing partisan political interests or weakening opposition politics in favour of the ruling All Progressives Congress (All Progressives Congress).

The association drew attention to the clear provisions of Section 83 of the Electoral Act, 2026, which explicitly states that no court in Nigeria shall entertain jurisdiction over matters relating to the internal affairs of political parties. The law further provides that courts must not grant interim or interlocutory injunctions in such cases and mandates significant financial penalties against litigants and counsel who file such actions in violation of the law.

HURIWA noted with concern that despite these unambiguous provisions, there appears to be a rising trend of judicial pronouncements and orders that contradict the spirit and letter of the Electoral Act, thereby raising serious questions about compliance, judicial discipline, and institutional integrity.

The group warned that any sustained pattern of judicial overreach into clearly defined political party matters risks creating the impression of a gradual erosion of multiparty democracy and could undermine public confidence in the independence of the judiciary.

HURIWA cautioned judicial officers to remain guided strictly by the Constitution and extant laws, emphasizing that the long-term consequences of actions perceived as partisan or unlawful could be damaging not only to individual reputations but also to the credibility of the judiciary as an institution.

The association stressed that the judiciary remains the last hope of the common man and must not be compromised by actions that suggest bias, selective interpretation of the law, or alignment with political interests.

HURIWA therefore called for strict adherence to the provisions of the Electoral Act, respect for the autonomy of political parties, and renewed commitment to the principles of justice, fairness, and constitutional order.
The statement was issued by the National Coordinator of HURIWA, Comrade Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, who urged all stakeholders to protect Nigeria’s democratic institutions from actions capable of eroding their legitimacy.

By Uthman-Baba Naseer, Minna

The Niger state government said it is improving security across the state by focusing on intelligence gathering, technology, and strong community cooperation.

Speaking on the progress of the ministry, the commissioner of Home land Barrister Maurice Magaji made this known in an interview with journalists in his office.

Barrister Maurice Magaji said efforts have been made to review what was inherited and build on the achievements of the previous administration.

He explained that new strategies have been introduced to make security more sustainable, noting that crime is constantly changing.

“Criminals keep changing their methods, so we must always stay ahead by predicting their next move,” he said.

The commissioner, added that, the Ministry is now placing more attention on research, intelligence, and modern technology to stop crimes before they happen instead of reacting after incidents occur.

On challenges, Maurice identified the lack of timely and accurate information as a major issue. He, however, called on members of the public to support security agencies by reporting suspicious activities early.

He gave examples such as unusual bulk purchases of fuel, strange movement of people, or stockpiling of goods, describing them as warning signs that should not be ignored.

Magaji confirmed that information from the public has been very useful in preventing many security threats, although such successes are not always made public due to security reasons. He said efforts are ongoing to build trust so people can share information freely, even anonymously.

Responding to concerns about the role of community leaders, the commissioner praised traditional rulers and local leaders, describing them as key partners in maintaining security. He noted that they often serve as first responders and help in providing vital information from their communities.

He also stressed the importance of public awareness, urging citizens to remain vigilant and report anything unusual, including large purchases of motorcycles or food items and suspicious movements.

In collaboration, the commissioner said security agencies are working closely together, sharing intelligence and responding quickly to threats. He described the relationship among the agencies as strong and effective.

Despite challenges such as limited resources, Magaji said the government has continued to support security operations by providing vehicles and equipment, including armored vehicles. He emphasized that security remains a top priority because it is essential for development, especially in agriculture and infrastructure.

Speaking on recent attacks in some communities, Maurice Magaji said security personnel responded promptly and remained on ground to protect residents. He added that the government is strengthening early warning systems to prevent future incidents.

The issue of informants according to him was also raised, warning that such individuals can worsen insecurity by leaking information from within communities. He said steps are being taken through awareness campaigns and intelligence efforts to address the problem.

On vigilante groups, he described them as important partners at the grassroots level. He said plans are underway to organize them under a unified command structure to improve coordination and support.

Barrister Maurice Magaji added that vigilantes will continue to assist security agencies by providing local intelligence and helping to keep communities safe.

By Our Correspondent

In an effort to rid the state of criminals, the Edo State Police Command has arrested six serving police officers, including an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) and two inspectors, over alleged involvement in harassment, abduction, and extortion.

Also arrested in connection with the case are a dismissed police corporal, two commercial bus drivers, and a Point-of-Sale (POS) operator.

The suspects were apprehended following sustained surveillance, intelligence gathering, and coordinated operations by the command.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem, said the arrests were prompted by multiple complaints from members of the public.

According to her, both serving and dismissed personnel allegedly formed a well-organised criminal syndicate responsible for a series of offences, including the abduction and extortion of unsuspecting citizens.

She identified the suspects as ASP Bonny Paul Onajite, Inspector Ehubarieme Wisdom, Inspector Arebame God’s Power, and Corporal Mordi Philip. Others include Destiny Emmanuel, a dismissed corporal; Corporal Okon Elvis; Samuel Nicholas and Etim Bright, both minibus drivers; and Goodluck Jaja, a POS operator.

Ikoedem stated that the syndicate allegedly exploited police uniforms and equipment to deceive victims and carried out their activities with impunity, thereby bringing the Nigeria Police Force into disrepute.

“The serving officers are currently undergoing internal disciplinary procedures, including orderly room trials. Upon conclusion of these processes and ongoing investigations, they will be arraigned before a court of competent jurisdiction,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, has cautioned POS operators and business owners to be vigilant and avoid facilitating unlawful transactions, even when approached by individuals in police uniform.

He warned that any operator found complicit in criminal activities would face arrest and prosecution.

The commissioner also called on victims of the alleged syndicate to come forward with credible information to aid ongoing investigations and prosecution.