A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the delisting of five political parties, including African Democratic Congress (ADC)in a ruling that could reshape Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Sentencing, Justice Peter Lifu held that the affected parties had failed to meet the constitutional requirements set out in Section 225 of the 1999 Constitution. which empowers the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to cancel the registration of political parties that do not meet prescribed legal and operational standards.
The parties affected by the court’s decision are the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Action People’s Party (APP), Action Alliance (AA), Zenith Labor Party (ZLP) and Accord Party (AP).
The court refers to constitutional provisions
According to the court, the parties did not meet the constitutional threshold required for continued recognition as registered political organizations in Nigeria.
Section 225 of the Constitution gives INEC the power to delete parties from the register if they do not comply with prescribed constitutional and electoral requirements.
Implications for the 2027 election
The ruling could have significant political implications ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
With the ADC among the affected parties, the ruling increases uncertainty over the platform’s participation in future elections and could affect political figures seeking to contest under its banner, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
However, the final effect of the judgment may depend on any appeals or further legal actions that may follow the court’s decision.
