Fresh uncertainty has emerged in Nigeria’s political landscape following a Federal High Court judgment directing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister five political parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Accord Party. The ruling, delivered by Justice Peter Lifu in Abuja, ordered the deregistration of ADC, Accord, Action Alliance (AA), Action Peoples Party (APP), and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) for allegedly failing to meet constitutional requirements for continued registration.
The judgment carries significant political implications for Atiku Abubakar, the ADC’s presidential candidate for the 2027 election, and Ademola Adeleke, who is contesting the August 15 Osun governorship election on the Accord Party platform. Political observers say the ruling could trigger fresh legal disputes over the eligibility of candidates seeking office under the affected parties, potentially complicating preparations for upcoming elections.
The case was instituted by the National Forum of Former Legislators, which argued that the affected parties failed to meet constitutional benchmarks, including electoral performance requirements outlined in Section 225A of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). Justice Lifu granted the reliefs sought and directed INEC to proceed with the deregistration of the parties.
Reacting to the judgment, Governor Adeleke described the ruling as an abuse of court process, arguing that it violated a subsisting order of the Court of Appeal. He expressed confidence that the decision would be overturned and assured supporters that the Accord Party would remain on the ballot for the Osun governorship election. Both ADC and Accord Party officials have also indicated plans to challenge the judgment, insisting that the legal battle is far from over.
Analysts believe the controversy could have wider implications for opposition realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, especially as parties seek to build alliances capable of challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress. With appeals expected and further court proceedings imminent, the fate of the affected parties and their candidates is likely to remain a major political issue in the weeks ahead.
