Reacting to the judgment, Elder Patrick D. Ambut, the ADC State Chairman, described the court’s decision as a bold stand for justice…
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A fresh wave of relief and renewed confidence swept through Kaduna’s political landscape on Wednesday as the State High Court reaffirmed the right of citizens and political parties to assemble peacefully. The ruling has been hailed as a “victory for democracy” by the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The landmark judgment, delivered by Hon. Justice Murtala Zubairu, declared the police ban on political gatherings in Kaduna State as unconstitutional, describing it as an abuse of power and a breach of statutory duty.
The court awarded ₦15 million in damages to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP), condemning what it called a “gross violation” of their fundamental rights to association and political participation.
The controversy began on 30 August 2025, when chaos erupted at an ADC coalition meeting in Kaduna attended by former Governor Nasir El-Rufai. The Kaduna State Police Command swiftly responded by banning what it termed “unauthorised political gatherings” across the state.
The move drew public outrage, particularly after El-Rufai and six ADC members were invited for questioning over alleged conspiracy and incitement.
But Justice Zubairu, in a strongly worded ruling dated 15 October 2025, held that Section 83(4) of the Police Act 2020 clearly outlines that the duty of the police was not to ban assemblies, but to provide security for citizens exercising their rights to peaceful protest or political meeting.
The court further directed the police to investigate the 30 August attack and submit a detailed report to the Kaduna State Attorney-General within 60 days.
Reacting to the judgment, Elder Patrick D. Ambut, the ADC State Chairman, described the court’s decision as a bold stand for justice and a powerful message that democracy must never be silenced by fear or political pressure.
He commended the judiciary for upholding the spirit of the Constitution and restoring faith in the rule of law, adding that the ruling was a reminder that law enforcement agencies must operate within the bounds of legality and fairness.
He urged party supporters to remain peaceful and law-abiding, stressing that the ADC’s philosophy of unity, peace, and progress must continue to guide their actions.
For many observers, Wednesday’s ruling was more than a legal victory. It was a symbolic restoration of civic confidence in a democracy often strained by partisan power struggles.
In the court corridors, Kadunanews24 heard murmurs of approval echoed as citizens hailed the judgment as “justice finally served.”
The Kaduna judiciary’s decision stands as a defining moment not only for the opposition parties but for every Nigerian who believes that democracy thrives only when the law protects the people, not power.
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