African Democratic Congress Rejects Court Ruling on Deregistration
The Kwara State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has voiced strong disapproval of the Federal High Court’s recent ruling that mandates the deregistration of the ADC along with four other political parties. The party claims this decision poses a direct threat to Nigeria’s multiparty democracy.
Details of the Court’s Decision
The judgement, delivered on Monday by Justice Peter Riff in Abuja, ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to revoke the registration of the ADC, Accord Party, Action Peoples Party, Action Alliance, and Zenith Labor Party. This directive was based on allegations that these parties did not meet constitutional electoral performance standards, specifically those outlined in Section 225A of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and the Electoral Act of 2022.
Origin of the Lawsuit
The legal challenge was initiated by the National Forum of Former Legislators, which has intensified scrutiny on the operational viability of smaller political parties in Nigeria.
ADC’s Response to the Ruling
In a statement released in Ilorin by Public Relations Secretary Mr. Abubakar Basambo, the ADC labeled the ruling an infringement on democratic freedoms. The party articulated its stance, asserting that the judgement undermines the stability of Nigeria’s democratic framework and warns against the judicial erosion of opposition parties.
Concerns Over Democratic Integrity
The ADC argues that the court’s ruling misinterprets constitutional guarantees of political participation and association. The party’s statement emphasizes that deregistering political entities on the basis of past electoral performance is effectively a judicial overreach, akin to amending the Constitution without legislative approval.
Allegations of Political Motivation
The ADC contends that the ruling is politically charged, aimed at diminishing opposition strength as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections. This latest court decision has been characterized as an effort by established powers to destabilize parties that offer credible alternatives to the status quo.
Implications for the Electoral Process
The party has raised alarms about the broader consequences of the court’s order. They assert that if enforced, the ruling could severely damage public confidence in the electoral process, potentially jeopardizing the integrity of Nigeria’s democracy.
Call for Calm and Resistance
In the wake of the ruling, the ADC has urged its members across Kwara State and the nation to remain composed, asserting that the judgement holds no legitimate grounds. They stressed that the ADC is rooted in the will of the Nigerian people and cannot be dismantled by judicial decree. The party called upon INEC to resist executing the court’s decision and encouraged civil society organizations and advocates of democracy to uphold Nigeria’s democratic ideals. The ADC expressed optimism that, bolstered by public support and resilience, they would emerge stronger in future elections.
