Political Science scholar and lecturer at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Dr Robert Ekat and the Managing Partner of Jiworob Law solicitors, Jimmy Robert have lamented the “undue interference” in the election of Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) by the judiciary.
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Dr. Ekat, who criticised the situation said: “In Nigeria, the judiciary has come under increased scrutiny due to recent conflicting and unexpected rulings, sparking concerns about its role in the country’s socio-political landscape.

“The NSE elections have become a focal point of this scrutiny, with the abrupt halting of the electoral process by an interlocutory injunction from a Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja.

“This has ignited debates on the appropriateness of frequent judicial interventions in organisational affairs.

“The situation has stirred discontent among certain association members, particularly as the inauguration of the anticipated President, Mrs. Margaret Oguntala, slated for January 2024, has been halted by court’s injunction.

If inaugurated, Mrs. Oguntala would make history as the first female President in the association’s 65-year history.

Beyond raising questions about gender dynamics in Nigeria’s elections, this incident, he said has spotlighted a concerning trend where disgruntled individuals employ legal manoeuvres akin to the political class.
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Although judicial interference in election matters is constitutionally permissible, Dr Ekat noted, the use of injunctions, whether ex-parte or interlocutory on election-related issues is regarded as regressive.

His words: “It creates organisational complexities, leadership challenges, and undue hardship for those involved.

“Critics argue that individuals face penalties even before the substantive issue in a case undergoes thorough court examination.”

Similarly, Robert, who besides being a lawyer, is a public affairs commentator pointed out that in associations, varying interests often come into play, especially during elections.

According to him, any member may find reasons to seek court intervention, and courts could be persuaded to grant injunctions pending the resolution of the case.

“Currently, all parties involved are expected to maintain the status quo until the substantive issues in the case are determined.

“The court has set January 25, 2024, for the hearing of the substantive suit, and all eyes are on it to see how this matter will unfold,” he declared.

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