The Court of Appeal has strongly criticized Justice Peter Odo Lifu of the Federal High Court over his decision to deliver judgment in a case seeking the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and four other political parties despite the existence of an appellate court order.

 

In its ruling, the appellate court described the action of the trial judge as a serious breach of judicial conduct and a disregard for the hierarchy of the courts.

 

According to the Court of Appeal, proceeding with the judgment while an order of the appellate court was in force amounted to a direct affront to judicial authority and due process.

 

"The decision of the lower court to proceed with the judgment despite the express order of this court is the highest form of judicial impertinence," the appellate court stated.

 

The court further noted that the Supreme Court had, in previous decisions, taken a firm position against such conduct by judicial officers.

 

"The Supreme Court had previously held that a judge who acted in such a manner is unfit for the Bench as it amounts to judicial rascality," the court added.

 

The strong remarks formed part of the Court of Appeal's decision to stay the execution of the Federal High Court judgment that sought the deregistration of the ADC and four other political parties.

 

The ruling has sparked renewed debate about adherence to judicial procedure, respect for superior court orders, and the need to safeguard public confidence in Nigeria's justice system.

 

Legal observers say the Court of Appeal's pronouncement underscores the importance of judicial discipline and reinforces the principle that lower courts must strictly comply with the directives and orders of superior courts.