The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) has described the judgment of the Federal High Court, Abuja, affirming Senator Esther Nenadi Usman as the valid National Chairman of the Labour Party as “a clear victory for constitutionalism, internal party democracy, and the supremacy of the rule of law”.
The CNPP said the ruling, which ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to recognise the Nenadi Usman-led Caretaker Committee as the legitimate authority of the Labour Party pending the conduct of a national convention, represents a major boost for Nigeria’s democratic development.
“The judgment sends an unmistakable signal that no individual ambition, factional interest, or political manipulation can lawfully override the authority of party constitutions and established democratic procedures,” the CNPP stated.
The group praised the judiciary for its courage and integrity in handling the matter, saying the ruling stands out in a challenging political climate.
“The CNPP particularly salutes the courage, clarity, and integrity displayed by the judiciary in this matter,” the statement read. “In a political environment where undue influence, intimidation, and coercion are often deployed to bend institutions to partisan interests, this judgment stands out as a reassuring testament to judicial independence.”
The CNPP urged INEC and other authorities to give full, immediate, and unambiguous effect to the judgment of the court, warning that the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral and democratic system depends on sound judicial pronouncements and their faithful implementation.
The group congratulated Senator Nenadi Usman and members of the Labour Party Caretaker Committee, urging them to discharge their mandate with restraint, inclusiveness, and strict adherence to the party constitution.
“Nigeria’s democracy can only be strengthened through strong institutions, respect for the rule of law, and principled political leadership,” the CNPP said, describing the court judgment as “a step in the right direction” that “must be defended by all democrats”.
