Nigerian court sets May 5 for hearing on party deregistration suit

The Federal High Court in Abuja is set to hear a significant case that could impact the political landscape of Nigeria. The lawsuit, filed by the Incorporated Trustees of the National Forum of Former Legislators, seeks the deregistration of several political parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Accord, Zenith Labour Party, and Action Alliance. The core of the plaintiffs' argument rests on alleged breaches of constitutional provisions governing party registration and participation in elections.

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The matter was time-sensitive and of public importance.

Justice Peter Lifu has fixed May 5 for the hearing, emphasizing the time-sensitive nature and public importance of the matter. The judge's directive for parties to file their responses promptly underscores the urgency, especially with party primaries for the 2027 general elections on the horizon. This legal challenge highlights a critical aspect of Nigeria's electoral process: ensuring that political parties meet stringent constitutional benchmarks.

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with party primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections approaching, there was a need for the case to be determined expeditiously.

The plaintiffs contend that the targeted parties failed to meet requirements such as securing 25% of votes in at least one state during presidential elections or having representation across all wards, local government areas, states, and the Federal Capital Territory. Their concern is that allowing non-compliant parties to participate in the 2027 elections could 'clog the ballot papers, overstretch administrative resources, and mislead voters.' The case also touches upon the internal wrangling within the ADC, which is currently facing a leadership dispute in the courts, adding another layer of complexity to the political party system in Nigeria.

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clogging the ballot papers, overstretching administrative resources and misleading voters.