Court Orders INEC to Deregister ADC, Accord and Three Other Parties Ahead of 2027 Elections
Federal High Court ruling sparks major shake-up in Nigeria’s political landscape
Court Gives Landmark Order Against Five Political Parties
A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister five political parties in Nigeria over alleged failure to meet constitutional electoral performance requirements.
The affected parties include the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Accord Party, Action Peoples Party (APP), Action Alliance (AA), and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).
The judgment was delivered by Justice Peter Lifu following a suit filed by the National Forum of Former Legislators.
Why the Court Ordered Deregistration
According to the plaintiffs, the affected parties failed to meet the minimum requirements under Section 225A of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and the Electoral Act 2022.
Political parties are expected to:
A) Win at least 25% of votes in at least one state during a presidential election, OR
B) Secure at least one elective position at national, state, or local government level
The court heard that the parties failed to meet these thresholds during the 2023 general elections and subsequent by-elections.
The plaintiffs argued that allowing them to remain registered weakens the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral system.
Court Pushes for Stronger Political Party Regulation
The court also considered requests seeking to:
A) Stop the affected parties from participating in elections
B) Restrict them from conducting primaries, campaigns, and political activities and
C) Compel INEC to enforce strict compliance with constitutional provisions
If implemented fully, the ruling could significantly reduce the number of political parties in Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Political Reactions and Growing Tension
The judgment has triggered debate across political circles, with concerns over its potential impact on opposition politics and election competitiveness.
Analysts say the ruling could reshape party structures and alliances as Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 general elections.
However, legal experts note that enforcement is not automatic and may depend on:
A) INEC’s official implementation
B) Possible appeals by affected political parties and
C) Further court proceedings or stay of execution orders
What Happens Next
At the time of filing this report, INEC has not issued an official statement and affected parties have not yet announced their legal response
Appeals or counter-applications are expected in the coming days
FAQs
Why did the court order deregistration of ADC and others?
They allegedly failed to meet constitutional electoral performance requirements.
Is the ruling already being enforced?
No official enforcement has been confirmed by INEC.
Can the parties challenge the ruling?
Yes, they may appeal or seek a stay of execution.
Which law supports the judgment?
Section 225A of the 1999 Constitution and the Electoral Act 2022.
Conclusion
The ruling represents one of the most significant electoral developments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
While it could reduce the number of political parties in Nigeria, its full effect depends on INEC’s response and possible legal appeals.
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We will continue monitoring developments and provide updates as official statements and legal outcomes emerge.
