Party vows legal battle after court ruling, insists it remains eligible to contest future elections.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has rejected a Federal High Court judgment directing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the party and four others, describing the ruling as a threat to Nigeria’s democracy.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC argued that the judgment contradicts constitutional provisions and existing legal precedents, insisting that INEC had previously affirmed the party’s compliance with all registration requirements.
The party also questioned the court’s decision to proceed with the matter, alleging that a Court of Appeal order had directed that proceedings be stayed pending further hearing.
According to the ADC, the ruling is part of a broader effort to weaken opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections. It warned that attempts to eliminate major opposition platforms through judicial processes could undermine democratic stability and political competition.
The party pledged to challenge the judgment through all available legal channels, including a petition to the National Judicial Council, while assuring members and supporters that it remains committed to participating in the 2027 elections.
“We reject any attempt to intimidate, suppress, or politically extinguish our party,” the statement said, adding that the ADC would continue to defend its political rights and those of its supporters.