The National Executive Council (NEC) of the Nigerian Bar Association has cautioned the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, against alleged threats to seal bank premises or political offices linked to the ongoing internal crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The resolution was adopted during the NBA NEC meeting held on Thursday in Awka.
According to the association, the Council expressed concern over public statements attributed to Wike suggesting that any PDP faction operating a parallel secretariat or opening bank accounts outside the party’s recognised structure could have such premises sealed.
The NBA stressed that although political parties may experience internal disagreements, such disputes must be resolved strictly through lawful and constitutional means.
“The resolution of such disputes must occur strictly within the framework of the law and through constitutionally recognised institutions and procedures,” the Council stated.
The legal body further declared that no public office holder has the unilateral power to seal private premises, organisations, or institutions without due legal process.
“No public office holder possesses unilateral authority to seal private premises, organisations, or institutions except pursuant to lawful procedures, judicial authorisation, and clearly established statutory powers,” the NBA said.
The Council warned that statements capable of suggesting executive overreach or extra-legal action could weaken public confidence in democratic governance and constitutional order.
“Public pronouncements capable of conveying threats of extra-legal action or executive overreach undermine constitutional governance and risk eroding public confidence in democratic institutions,” the statement added.
The NBA therefore urged the FCT Minister and other public officials to exercise caution in both their conduct and public remarks.
“The Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and all public office holders must exercise restraint in both conduct and public communication, and remain guided at all times by the Constitution, the rule of law, and the principles of democratic accountability,” the Council stated.