A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the deregistration of five political parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC), in a ruling that could reshape Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Delivering judgment, Justice Peter Lifu held that the affected parties failed to meet the constitutional requirements outlined in Section 225 of the 1999 Constitution, which empowers the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister political parties that do not satisfy stipulated legal and operational standards.
The parties affected by the court’s decision are the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Actions People’s Party (APP), Action Alliance (AA), Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), and Accord Party (AP).
Court cites constitutional provisions
According to the court, the parties failed to meet the constitutional threshold required for continued recognition as registered political organisations in Nigeria.
Section 225 of the Constitution grants INEC the authority to remove parties from the register if they fail to comply with prescribed constitutional and electoral requirements.
Implications for 2027 elections
The ruling could have significant political implications ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
With the ADC among the parties affected, the judgment raises uncertainty over the platform’s participation in future elections and could affect political figures seeking to contest under its banner, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
However, the final impact of the judgment may depend on any appeals or further legal actions that could follow the court’s decision.