A major test of Nigeria’s political party system will come before the Federal High Court in Abuja on May 5, as a suit seeking the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and other political parties moves into hearing.
Justice Peter Lifu fixed the date on Monday after granting leave for the plaintiffs to amend their originating summons to include additional political parties alleged to have failed to meet constitutional requirements for continued existence.
The suit, filed by the Incorporated Trustees of the National Forum of Former Legislators (NFFL), also targets the Accord Party, Zenith Labour Party, and Action Alliance, alongside the ADC.
The plaintiffs are asking the court to compel the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the parties, arguing that they have failed to demonstrate the level of electoral performance required under the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
Listed as defendants are INEC, the Attorney-General of the Federation, and the affected political parties.
Justice Lifu ordered all parties yet to respond to the amended processes to do so promptly, noting that the matter is urgent and of significant public importance given the approaching party primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections. He also directed all filings to be completed by May 1.
At the centre of the case is whether INEC has a constitutional obligation to remove political parties that fail to win elections or meet stipulated performance benchmarks, including representation across elective offices and electoral spread requirements.
In their affidavit, the NFFL argued that the affected parties have not secured any elective positions at national or state levels since their registration and have also failed to meet thresholds such as winning substantial vote shares in presidential elections.
They contended that continued recognition of such parties clutters the electoral system, increases administrative costs, and weakens democratic competition by keeping inactive political platforms on the ballot.
The plaintiffs are also seeking orders restraining INEC from recognising or engaging with the parties unless they demonstrate full compliance with legal requirements.
The outcome of the case is expected to have wider implications for Nigeria’s multiparty system, particularly as political actors begin early positioning ahead of the 2027 elections.
Court Sets May 5 for Crucial Case on Possible Deregistration of ADC, Others
