Court Overturns NDC Registration Ruling
A Federal High Court in Lokoja, Kogi State capital, has vacated its earlier judgment that ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). The ruling, delivered on Friday, June 26, by Justice Isah Dashen, nullified the December 10, 2025 order, dealing a blow to political figures Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso, who were linked to the party.
Reason for Setting Aside Judgment
Justice Dashen held that the earlier judgment could not stand because not all parties involved were heard before the court concluded the case. The judge stated that the suit filed by the Peace Movement Party (PMP), which sought to join as an interested party, was genuine, as PMP was a necessary party in the suit. The court noted that the earlier hearings had a constitutional defect, and the failure to hear all interested parties could nullify the ruling.
Restoration of Status Quo
The court ordered the restoration of the status quo pending the hearing of the substantive suit. Justice Dashen observed that material facts leading to the 2025 judgment were suppressed, necessitating the setting aside of the earlier ruling. He then directed the commencement of a substantive suit involving INEC, PMP, and NDC as parties.
Political Implications
The development comes amid reports of defections and political realignments involving Obi and Kwankwaso. The NDC was seen as a potential vehicle for their political ambitions. The court's decision now places the party's registration in limbo, affecting their political strategies.
