More Trouble For ADC As Court Adjourns Suit Seeking Deregistration Of Party, Others To May 5
More Trouble For ADC As Court Adjourns Suit Seeking Deregistration Of Party, Others To May 5
Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned proceedings in a suit seeking the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and three other political parties over alleged constitutional breaches.
The suit, filed by the National Forum of Former Legislators (NFFL), also targets the Accord Party, Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), and Action Alliance (AA), accusing them of violating provisions of Section 225 of the 1999 Constitution. The plaintiffs are asking the court to compel the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to enforce compliance with constitutional requirements for political party operations.
At the hearing, Justice Lifu granted the plaintiffs leave to amend their originating summons to ensure all relevant parties are properly captured in the suit. The court held that the amendment was necessary for fair hearing and comprehensive adjudication of the issues raised.
The judge further directed parties who are yet to respond to the amended processes to do so promptly, stressing the need for accelerated proceedings given the broader political implications of the case.
Justice Lifu subsequently adjourned the matter to May 5 for continuation of hearing, with a directive that all filings must be regularised before the next court date.
In the substantive suit, the NFFL is seeking declaratory and injunctive reliefs, including an order mandating INEC to deregister political parties that fail to meet constitutional thresholds for continued existence. The group argued that the proliferation of non-compliant parties undermines the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral system and imposes unnecessary administrative burdens.
Some of the affected parties, particularly the ADC, have opposed the suit, challenging its competence and urging the court to dismiss it.
The outcome of the case is expected to have significant implications for Nigeria’s political space, especially as preparations gradually intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.
