NDC insists it remains legally recognised, appeals court judgment

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) is challenging a recent judgment from the Federal High Court in Lokoja that instructed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to withhold recognition of the party pending the resolution of legal disputes.

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Our legal team were in Lokoja to file the stay of execution on the ruling, we are waiting for them to return to Abuja with the documents.

Despite the court's order, the NDC asserts its continued legal standing as a political party. National Publicity Secretary Osa Director stated that the party has filed an appeal and is awaiting documentation for a stay of execution on the ruling. The party views the judgment not as a deregistration but as a reversal of an earlier order compelling INEC to register the NDC.

Barr. Ikenna Enekweizu, the National Secretary, clarified that no order dissolving or deregistering the party was issued. He assured members and supporters that the NDC remains a valid political entity and will continue its activities nationwide. The party maintains there is no subsisting court order preventing its operations.

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the court did not issue any order dissolving or deregistering the party.

The NDC has instructed its legal team to contest the Lokoja judgment at the Court of Appeal, expressing confidence that the appellate court will rectify perceived legal errors. The party remains committed to participating in the 2027 general elections and assures its candidates that preparations will proceed without interruption.

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in the party’s view, the NDC remains a valid political party and will continue to carry out its lawful activities across the country.

Enekweizu suggested the timing of the judgment might be intended to disrupt the party's election preparations but insisted the NDC will not be deterred. The party is committed to defending democracy and the rights of its members through all lawful means.

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He expressed confidence that the appellate court would overturn what the party considers legal errors in the judgment and reaffirm the rights of the NDC.