Activist Omoyele Sowore has vowed to resist a Federal High Court ruling that ordered the deregistration of five political parties, describing the decision as undemocratic and a threat to multi-party democracy.
Court Ruling Sparks Immediate Backlash
Justice Peter Lifu, sitting in Abuja, directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Accord Party, Action Alliance (AA), Action Peoples Party (APP), and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP). The ruling cited their alleged failure to meet constitutional requirements for continued existence.
The judgment has already generated intense debate across political circles, particularly as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum. Critics argue that the timing of the ruling could disrupt the electoral process and limit voter choice.
Sowore Condemns the Ruling
Among those criticizing the ruling is Omoyele Sowore, the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC). He described the move as undemocratic and inconsistent with the principles of a multi-party democracy. Sowore argued that political parties that have concluded their primaries and are preparing for future elections should not be removed from the political space.
“It shall not stand,” Sowore said in a statement posted on his verified X account, insisting that the decision was unjustifiable. He further called on supporters and other democratic stakeholders to resist what he termed a judicial overreach.
Legal and Political Battle Ahead
The ruling is expected to open a new chapter of legal and political contestation. Affected parties are likely to challenge the judgment and seek relief through the courts, potentially prolonging the dispute. Legal experts have noted that the case could set a precedent for how political parties are regulated in Nigeria.
Reacting to the ruling, Sowore maintained that the decision would not stand, setting the stage for what could become a prolonged legal and political battle over the future of the affected parties and their role in the 2027 elections. He urged INEC to resist implementing the order until all legal avenues have been exhausted.
