Court Reverses Order for INEC to Register NDC
The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has expressed disappointment over a court ruling that nullified an earlier order for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register the NDC as a political party. The Federal High Court in Lokoja, Kogi State, on Friday set aside its December 2025 judgement that had directed INEC to register the NDC.
The reversal came after the Peace Movement Party (PMP) filed an application arguing that it was not joined in the original suit. Judge Isah Dashen upheld the PMP's application, stating that all relevant parties must be heard before any substantive decision can be made. He declared the omission rendered the entire process null and void and ordered the restoration of the status quo pending the determination of the substantive suit.
Obi: 'Serious Setback for Nigerian Democracy'
Reacting on his verified Facebook page on Friday night, Mr Obi described the ruling as "a serious setback for Nigerian democracy." He noted that he was at Madonna University for an engagement when his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, informed him of the court ruling.
"This judgement represents another setback for our democracy and the institutions upon which our future depends. It is regrettable that some who claim to champion democracy now appear determined to weaken the very institutions that sustain it. In doing so, they are undermining public confidence and endangering the future of millions of Nigerians," Obi said.
Obi Warns Against Erosion of Institutional Independence
Mr Obi argued that Nigeria's legislature and judiciary are constantly being influenced by the executive arm of government. "Democracy cannot thrive where institutions lose their independence and credibility," he stated. The former Anambra State governor recalled that he had condemned a similar ruling that initially ordered the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress and four other political parties. "I do so again today because my position has always been guided by principle," he said of his condemnation of Friday's ruling.
The NDC candidate emphasized that his concern is about the workability of Nigeria, not about who becomes president in 2027. "Our politics must move beyond the quest for power and focus instead on building a united nation founded on justice, strong institutions, the rule of law, and equal opportunity. I therefore urge all well-meaning Nigerians to rise above partisan interests and defend our democracy. The survival of our institutions is inseparable from the survival of our nation," he stated.
