The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly criticised what it describes as attempts by unnamed government agents to use the judiciary to undermine Nigeria’s democracy, warning that any move to deregister the party could spark a major political crisis.
In a statement issued on Monday, the opposition party expressed alarm over a reported judgment by Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja. The ruling came in a suit filed by the National Forum of Former Legislators seeking the deregistration of the ADC and four other political parties.
The ADC described the judgment as one that “stands in direct conflict with constitutional principles and all known judicial processes and procedures.”
According to the party, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had filed a counter-affidavit in May, affirming that the ADC had not violated any registration requirements, failed any electoral performance thresholds, or given any legal basis for deregistration. INEC reportedly emphasised that party deregistration cannot be influenced by political pressure or the wishes of interested parties.
The ADC further alleged that Justice Lifu proceeded with the case despite a subsisting order from the Court of Appeal dated May 22, 2026, which directed a stay of proceedings. The party accused the judge of disregarding the superior court’s directive in a manner that undermines judicial traditions. “The judge, however, chose to flagrantly and contemptuously disregard a clear order of a superior court,” the statement read.
The opposition party also raised concerns over the involvement of high-ranking officials, claiming that individuals linked to the President’s Chief of Staff had championed the case. It criticised the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice listed as a second defendant, for joining the matter as a plaintiff in April, describing the action as “an absurdity.”
The timing of the development has raised further suspicion, coming shortly after the ADC concluded its primaries and fielded candidates for the upcoming general elections, including the presidential race.
“Any attempt to eliminate the country’s major opposition party through judicial manoeuvring, thereby sabotaging the political aspirations of hundreds of its candidates, is a direct invitation to anarchy,” the ADC warned.
The party urged political actors to focus on tackling Nigeria’s pressing economic and security challenges rather than targeting opposition parties. It cautioned that efforts to shrink the democratic space through institutional manipulation could unleash forces beyond partisan interests.
A story of courage, wonder, and the transformative power of self-belief; perfect for readers aged 10+ who love adventure. To place order: +234 806 130 3237 | +234 803 582 0870 OR Tap the link to grab a copy:https://www.zeekapublish.com/product/the-magical-life-of-anna
