The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has raised concerns over what it described as attempts to use the judiciary to weaken democratic institutions and create political instability in Nigeria.
The party expressed alarm over a recent Federal High Court ruling in Abuja involving a suit seeking the de-registration of the ADC and four other political parties. According to the party, the judgment contradicts constitutional provisions and established judicial procedures.
ADC maintained that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is the only body empowered by the Constitution to register or de-register political parties. The party noted that INEC had previously stated in court filings that the ADC had not breached any registration requirements or failed to meet constitutional conditions that could justify its removal from the political space.
The party further pointed out that INEC had insisted that political parties could only be de-registered based on clearly defined constitutional grounds, stressing that no such grounds had been established against the ADC.
The opposition party also questioned the circumstances surrounding the ruling, alleging that an existing Court of Appeal order directing a stay of proceedings in the matter had been disregarded. According to the ADC, the development raises concerns about adherence to judicial processes and the protection of democratic principles.
The party described the situation as more than a legal disagreement, warning that actions capable of weakening opposition parties could have broader implications for Nigeria’s democratic system.
ADC further alleged that certain government officials and individuals linked to the ruling party have played significant roles in advancing the case. It argued that the timing of the ruling is particularly noteworthy, coming after the party concluded its primary elections and prepared candidates for upcoming polls, including the presidential election.
Despite the development, the ADC assured its members that it would challenge the ruling through all legal channels available while urging supporters to remain calm and await further instructions from the party leadership.
