A Federal High Court in Abuja has struck out an application by Senator Clever Ikisikpo seeking to be joined in an ongoing suit challenging the continued registration of some political parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Accord Party.
The suit, instituted by the National Forum of Former Legislators (NFFL), is asking the court to interpret constitutional provisions guiding the deregistration of political parties. The defendants in the matter include the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation.
Ikisikpo’s bid to join the case was withdrawn during proceedings after counsel to the plaintiff challenged his eligibility, arguing that he is not a member of the NFFL and therefore lacks the legal standing to participate. Following the withdrawal, the court struck out the application.
Tuesday’s hearing was marked by intense procedural arguments, particularly over a Motion on Notice filed by the plaintiff seeking to amend its originating processes to include additional parties.
Counsel to the ADC, Sani E. Aruwa (SAN), opposed the application, alleging that some parties were added without due process. “I cannot come before this court and suddenly change my name without leave. That is exactly what has been done here,” he argued, describing the move as unconstitutional and incompetent.
Aruwa further maintained that withdrawing certain reliefs sought in the suit did not resolve the defects in the application.
Presiding judge, Peter Lifu, was forced to intervene multiple times to restore order in the courtroom, particularly as counsel to the joinder applicant interrupted proceedings despite the matter not being ripe for hearing.
At one point, the judge questioned counsel’s standing, remarking, “I don’t know you, I’ve not seen you,” and cautioned against inconsistent submissions, adding, “You’re here dancing this way and the other way.”
The court also heard an application by the plaintiff’s counsel, Yakubu Ruba (SAN), seeking to amend the originating summons but adjourned ruling on the motion.
Justice Lifu noted that the outcome of two pending applications could determine the fate of the entire case, warning that “if they are disallowed, that’s the end.”
The matter was subsequently adjourned to April 17, 2026, for rulings and continuation of proceedings.
At the centre of the legal battle is a request for judicial interpretation of Section 225A of the Fourth Alteration Act No. 9 (2017), with the plaintiffs urging the court to compel INEC to enforce provisions relating to the deregistration of political parties in line with constitutional intent.
The proceedings highlight the growing legal contest over party deregistration in Nigeria, with arguments so far focused largely on procedural and jurisdictional issues rather than the substantive constitutional questions at stake.
Court Strikes Out Ikisikpo’s Joinder Bid in ADC, Accord Deregistration Suit
