The National Youth Wing of the African Democratic Congress has formally petitioned the National Judicial Council, demanding the removal of Justice Peter Odo Lifu from all judicial matters relating to the party following a controversial ruling that ordered the deregistration of the ADC and four other political parties.
The petition, submitted in collaboration with civil society leaders within the party, represents the latest escalation in the growing dispute surrounding a Federal High Court judgment that has generated widespread political and legal debate across the country.
According to the ADC youth leadership, the petition was addressed to the Executive Secretary of the National Judicial Council and calls for immediate action to preserve confidence in Nigeria’s judicial system.
Party officials argued that Justice Lifu should be recused from all adjudicatory matters concerning the ADC while the council investigates allegations surrounding his conduct in the disputed case.
The controversy stems from a judgment delivered by the Federal High Court directing the Independent National Electoral Commission to deregister the ADC and four other political parties over alleged constitutional violations.
ADC leaders maintain that the ruling threatens democratic participation and could significantly alter Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Representatives of the youth wing accused the judge of proceeding with the matter despite what they described as an existing Court of Appeal order staying further proceedings in the case.
The group further alleged that the judgment ignored important legal and procedural concerns that should have been addressed before any final determination was made.
Speaking on behalf of the youth wing, party representatives claimed that public confidence in the judiciary could be damaged if concerns raised by political stakeholders are not thoroughly examined.
The petition also referenced previous complaints and public criticisms directed at the judge, arguing that repeated allegations have contributed to growing skepticism among citizens regarding judicial impartiality.
ADC youth leaders insisted that protecting democratic institutions requires accountability within every arm of government, including the judiciary, particularly during politically sensitive periods.
The development comes only days after separate civil society groups and political stakeholders also called on the National Judicial Council to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deregistration ruling.
Several critics of the judgment have argued that adherence to judicial hierarchy and respect for appellate court orders remain essential principles for maintaining the credibility of the legal system.
Supporters of the petition believe a transparent review by the National Judicial Council would help address public concerns and reinforce confidence in the administration of justice.
The youth wing further declared that it would continue advocacy efforts until the council takes action on its demands regarding Justice Lifu’s involvement in matters affecting the party.
Political observers note that the dispute highlights the increasingly important role of the courts in shaping Nigeria’s electoral environment as preparations for the 2027 elections gradually intensify.
The National Judicial Council has yet to publicly announce any decision regarding the petition at the time of reporting, leaving attention focused on how the judiciary will respond to the growing controversy.