Justice Lifu Is APC Mole' — ADC Chieftain Alleges Plot To Silence Opposition

A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has alleged that Justice Lifu is an "APC mole," claiming there is an orchestrated plot to use the judiciary to silence and weaken the opposition.

The ADC chieftain made the explosive allegation while raising concerns over what was described as a deliberate scheme to undermine opposition parties through the courts, ahead of the intensifying political activities in the country.

According to the chieftain, the alleged plot is aimed at suppressing opposition voices and tilting the political playing field in favour of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), thereby threatening the survival of multi-party democracy in the country.

The opposition figure expressed worry that the judiciary, which is supposed to be an impartial arbiter, could be exploited as a tool to achieve political objectives and stifle the activities of opposition parties.

He warned that any attempt to weaponise the judiciary against the opposition would have grave consequences for democracy, calling on all stakeholders to rise in defence of the independence and integrity of the judicial arm of government.

The chieftain stressed that a vibrant and independent judiciary is fundamental to the survival of democracy, insisting that the courts must remain neutral and free from political influence or manipulation.

He called on Nigerians, civil society organisations, and pro-democracy groups to be vigilant and resist any move capable of compromising the judiciary or undermining the democratic process.

The allegation has continued to generate reactions across the political spectrum, with the opposition likely to amplify the claims, while the ruling party and the affected judicial officer may dismiss them as unfounded.

The development comes amid ongoing controversies surrounding the activities of political parties, the role of the judiciary in resolving political disputes, and concerns over the shrinking democratic space in the country.

Political observers note that allegations bordering on the politicisation of the judiciary, if not properly addressed, could erode public confidence in the justice system and the broader democratic process.

The ADC, like other opposition parties, has continued to raise concerns about what it perceives as attempts to weaken the opposition and consolidate the dominance of the ruling party ahead of future elections.

As reactions continue to trail the allegation, calls have intensified for the protection of the independence of the judiciary and the preservation of a level playing field for all political actors.

The development is expected to further fuel debates about the role of the judiciary in the nation's political affairs and the imperative of safeguarding democratic institutions.