Judge’s Absence Stalls Judgement in Suit Seeking De-registration of ADC, Accord, Three Other Political Parties

A crucial judgment on the de-registration of five Nigerian political parties was postponed due to the absence of Federal High Court Judge Peter Lifu. The parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Accord Party (AP), are facing potential de-registration for constitutional breaches, specifically for failing to secure any seats in past elections.

Justice Lifu had previously adjourned the case on May 20, setting June 5 as the date to decide on the parties' eligibility for future elections. However, on the scheduled date, court officials announced that the judge was engaged in official duties outside Abuja. A new date for the judgment delivery will be communicated to all parties involved.

During the earlier proceedings, Justice Lifu had dismissed applications for a stay of proceedings and for parties to be joined as interested parties. He cited potential hardship for litigants and cautioned against undue delays, referencing Supreme Court directives. The judge also noted that most parties seeking to join the suit were already defendants, making individual member inclusion unnecessary.

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It is my considered view not to grant the stay except otherwise decided by the upper court.