The Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled February 24, 2026, to hear a suit seeking the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress and other political parties over alleged breaches of the Nigerian Constitution.
The suit, filed by the Incorporated Trustees of the National Forum of Former Legislators, names the Independent National Electoral Commission, the Attorney-General of the Federation, and five political parties — African Democratic Congress, Accord Party, Zenith Labour Party, and Action Alliance — as respondents. Initially set for mention before Justice Peter Lifu, the case was adjourned to February 24.
Speaking to journalists, the plaintiff’s counsel, Yakubu Ruba (SAN), said the suit seeks a judicial interpretation of constitutional and statutory provisions on party registration and recognition. “Some parties, in our view, have acted in breach of the Constitution, and we seek the court’s guidance,” Ruba stated.
The dispute centers on whether INEC is constitutionally required to deregister parties that fail to meet minimum electoral performance thresholds. These thresholds include winning at least 25 percent of votes in a state presidential election, securing a local government area in governorship elections, or winning at least one elective seat.
The plaintiffs are asking the court to determine whether INEC is empowered or obligated to enforce these benchmarks and whether the parties remain eligible for recognition and participation in the 2027 general elections. They also seek declaratory orders compelling INEC to enforce compliance and restraining the electoral body from recognizing parties that fail to meet legal requirements.
In an affidavit, NFFL Chairman Hon. Igbokwe Nnanna accused INEC of neglecting its constitutional duty by continuing to recognize parties that have failed to win any elections nationwide. The forum argued that without court intervention, these parties may participate in the 2027 elections, misleading voters and straining administrative resources.
Justice Lifu adjourned proceedings to February 24 for further hearing.
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