By Micah Jonah
February 18, 2026
Deji Adeyanju has emphasized the importance of judicial oversight in Nigeria’s electoral process, insisting that courts play a vital role in ensuring free, fair elections.
Under Sections 6, 239, and 285 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), election tribunals and appellate courts are empowered to adjudicate disputes arising from presidential and governorship elections. Adeyanju stressed that the judiciary does not conduct elections but rather determines whether they are conducted according to law. He warned that sidelining the courts would leave electoral fraud and irregularities unchecked.
The activist cited the Supreme Court case of Lakanmi v. Attorney-General (Western State) (1971) 1 All N.L.R. 225, which rejected attempts to place government actions beyond judicial review, to underscore the enduring constitutional responsibility of courts in electoral matters.
Adeyanju pointed to past instances where judicial intervention restored the mandates of politicians such as Adams Oshiomhole, Rotimi Amaechi, Olusegun Mimiko, and Peter Obi, highlighting the courts’ role in safeguarding democracy.
He called for reforms to strengthen judicial integrity, including merit-based appointments and mechanisms to prevent compromise in electoral cases, rather than stripping courts of jurisdiction. “In a constitutional democracy, courts are the last line of defense against arbitrariness,” Adeyanju said.
Analysts note that Nigeria’s political environment, often marred by disputes and irregularities, makes judicial oversight indispensable for maintaining public confidence in election outcomes.
