The Minister of State for Defence, Mohammed Matawalle, says a recent High Court judgment recognising the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has dispelled allegations that President Bola Tinubu interferes with the judiciary.

In a statement issued on Friday in Kaduna, Matawalle said the court’s decision demonstrated the President’s respect for judicial independence and adherence to democratic principles.

His remarks followed a High Court ruling in Abuja dismissing a suit challenging the leadership of the ADC under former Senate President David Mark, with the court holding that the party’s leadership complied with its constitution and the law.

Reacting to the judgment, Matawalle said, “Tinubu’s refusal to interfere with the judgment shows his commitment to democracy and judicial independence.”

He added that the ruling reaffirmed David Mark’s position as ADC leader and dismissed claims that the President was attempting to influence the judiciary or turn Nigeria into a one-party state.

According to the minister, the judgment reflects Tinubu’s commitment to due process, the rule of law and the independence of the courts.

Matawalle maintained that the President had never sought to influence court proceedings, including politically sensitive cases, despite criticism from opposition figures.

He also accused some opposition politicians of spreading misinformation whenever court decisions did not favour them, while ignoring judgments that demonstrated the judiciary’s independence.

“The sanctity of the judiciary remains non-negotiable because the President believes that a strong and independent judiciary is fundamental to Nigeria’s democratic survival, political stability and national cohesion,” he said.

On security, the minister said the Federal Government remained committed to addressing insecurity through ongoing military operations nationwide.

He stated that troops under Operation Fansan Yamma had dismantled several bandit camps, neutralised notorious criminal leaders and reclaimed communities previously occupied by armed groups in the North-West.

Matawalle added that military operations in other parts of the country had also degraded the capabilities of terrorists, bandits and other criminal groups, assuring Nigerians that the Tinubu administration would continue to equip and support the Armed Forces in the fight against insecurity.