2027 battle: Opposition rages as court scraps ADC, four parties

A controversial Federal High Court ruling in Abuja has ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister five political parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Action Peoples Party, Action Alliance, and Zenith Labour Party. The decision has ignited fierce criticism from opposition parties, who decry it as a threat to Nigeria's democratic process and a move to weaken opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke and Senator David Mark, National Chairman of the ADC, voiced strong objections, warning of significant implications for Nigeria's democracy. Former Vice President and ADC presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar unequivocally condemned the judgment, labeling it an "assault on Nigeria's democracy" and a "dangerous escalation of authoritarian tactics."

The court's order was based on a lawsuit filed by the National Forum of Former Legislators. The plaintiffs argued that the five parties consistently failed to meet the electoral performance thresholds stipulated in the Nigerian Constitution and the Electoral Act 2022. These benchmarks include winning at least 25% of votes in a state during a presidential election or securing at least one elective seat at any government level.

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The judgment represents a dangerous escalation of authoritarian tactics and a blatant assault on Nigeria’s democracy.

Adding to the controversy, Atiku Abubakar highlighted that the judgment was reportedly delivered despite a subsisting order from the Court of Appeal staying proceedings in the matter. The Court of Appeal had, on May 22, 2026, granted this stay, making the High Court's decision particularly contentious. Abubakar urged all Nigerians committed to democratic governance, political pluralism, and the rule of law to be concerned by this development.

Lawyers for the plaintiffs had urged the court to declare INEC's duty to deregister parties that fail to meet constitutional benchmarks and to compel the commission to do so before the 2027 election preparations advance further. The ruling comes at a sensitive time, raising concerns about the fairness and inclusivity of the upcoming electoral cycle.

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What makes the situation even more disturbing is that this judgment was purportedly delivered despite a clear and subsisting order of the Court of Appeal.