A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, has ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister five political parties over alleged failure to meet constitutional requirements for continued recognition.
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The parties affected by the judgment include the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Actions People’s Party (APP), Action Alliance (AA), Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), and Accord Party.
Delivering the judgment, Justice Peter Lifu ruled that the parties failed to satisfy the conditions required under Section 225 of the 1999 Constitution, which empowers INEC to remove political parties that do not comply with stipulated constitutional and electoral obligations.
The court held that the affected parties no longer met the threshold required to remain registered political organisations in Nigeria.
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The decision could have major consequences for the country’s political landscape, especially ahead of the 2027 general elections, as affected parties may face uncertainty over their future participation in electoral contests.
The deregistration of the ADC has particularly attracted attention, as the party has been linked with major political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, whose possible political moves ahead of 2027 have been widely discussed.
However, the immediate impact of the ruling may depend on whether the affected parties appeal the judgment or pursue other legal options.
The ruling is expected to trigger further reactions among political stakeholders, as parties and supporters assess the implications for Nigeria’s multiparty democracy ahead of the next election cycle.
