The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly condemned a Federal High Court judgment ordering the deregistration of the party and four others, describing the ruling as a dangerous assault on democracy and a direct threat to Nigeria’s political stability.
In a statement issued on Monday, the opposition party accused Justice Peter Lifu of disregarding constitutional principles and judicial procedures, warning that efforts to remove political parties through the courts could trigger a major democratic crisis.
The ADC’s reaction followed reports that Justice Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja granted a request by the National Forum of Former Legislators seeking the deregistration of five political parties, including the ADC.
According to the party, the ruling contradicts the position earlier taken by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which had reportedly informed the court that there was no constitutional or legal basis for the ADC’s deregistration.
The party stated that in documents filed before the court in May, INEC maintained that the ADC had complied with all registration requirements and had not breached any electoral performance threshold that could warrant its removal from the list of registered political parties.
“The constitutional body responsible for regulating political parties made it clear that no valid grounds existed for the deregistration of the ADC,” the statement said.
The party also expressed concern that the court allegedly proceeded with the matter despite a subsisting order from the Court of Appeal issued on May 22, 2026, directing a stay of proceedings.
According to the ADC, the trial judge’s decision to continue with the case despite the appellate court’s directive raises serious questions about adherence to established judicial norms and respect for superior court orders.
Beyond the legal arguments, the party alleged that political interests were driving the case, claiming that individuals linked to the ruling establishment had actively supported the action against it.
The ADC further questioned the involvement of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice in the matter, describing it as unusual and politically motivated.
The opposition party argued that the timing of the judgment was suspicious, noting that it had already completed its primaries and was preparing to field candidates in upcoming elections, including the presidential race.
It warned that any attempt to weaken or eliminate a major opposition platform through judicial means would amount to denying hundreds of candidates and supporters their democratic rights.
Describing the ruling as “reckless, provocative and incendiary,” the ADC cautioned political actors against manipulating state institutions for partisan advantage.
“Those who believe they can shrink the democratic space through judicial manoeuvring are playing with fire,” the party said, warning that such actions could have far-reaching consequences for Nigeria’s democracy.
