Nigeria electoral commission accused of defying court order on party registration

The Citizens Democratic Alliance (CDA) has accused Nigeria's Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of disregarding a Federal High Court judgment that ordered the electoral body to register the association as a political party. The CDA stated that INEC has neither issued a Certificate of Registration nor provided any justification for its non-compliance.

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Regrettably, as of 17 July 2026, INEC has neither issued the Certificate of Registration nor communicated any lawful basis for its continued non-compliance with the judgment of a court of competent jurisdiction.

According to the CDA's National Publicity Secretary, Umar Abdullahi, the Federal High Court delivered a judgment on June 23, 2026, mandating INEC to register the party within seven days of receiving the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the ruling. The association obtained and served the CTC to INEC on July 1, 2026, meaning the deadline for compliance passed on July 8, 2026. As of July 17, 2026, the CDA reported no action from INEC.

Abdullahi stressed that judicial decisions are binding on all authorities, including government institutions. He argued that compliance with court orders is crucial for maintaining constitutional democracy and public confidence in the justice system. The CDA urged INEC to implement the judgment promptly.

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The Citizens Democratic Alliance firmly believes that the rule of law is the bedrock of constitutional democracy. Judicial decisions are binding on all persons and authorities, including public institutions established under the Constitution. Respect for court orders is indispensable to preserving public confidence in the administration of justice and the integrity of our democratic institutions.

The association also appealed to civil society organizations, lawyers, the media, and pro-democracy groups to advocate for the rule of law and demand adherence to the court's decision. The CDA reaffirmed its commitment to democratic governance and providing a credible political alternative in Nigeria, vowing to pursue its objectives through lawful means.

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We also call on civil society organisations, the media, members of the legal profession, pro-democracy advocates, and all Nigerians who believe in constitutional governance to lend their voices in defence of the rule of law and the sanctity of judicial decisions.