Obi calls court ruling on NDC party registration a 'setback for democracy'

Peter Obi, the presidential candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has voiced strong concern over a recent Federal High Court ruling in Lokoja. The court overturned its earlier judgment that had directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register the NDC as a political party.

Obi, who learned of the decision while attending events in Imo State, described the ruling as "another setback for our democracy and the institutions upon which our future depends." He argued that democratic institutions must maintain their independence and credibility, cautioning that any actions undermining public trust could have severe long-term consequences for Nigeria.

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This judgment represents another setback for our democracy and the institutions upon which our future depends.

"It is regrettable that some who claim to champion democracy now appear determined to weaken the very institutions that sustain it," Obi stated. He expressed worry about the perceived weakening of democratic institutions, emphasizing the necessity for both the legislature and the judiciary to remain independent for democracy to thrive.

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It is regrettable that some who claim to champion democracy now appear determined to weaken the very institutions that sustain it. In doing so, they are undermining public confidence and endangering the future of millions of Nigerians.

Obi clarified that his reaction stems from a principled stance rather than political self-interest, recalling similar criticisms he made regarding developments involving the African Democratic Congress (ADC). He stressed that his primary concern is for Nigeria's functionality, advocating for politics to move beyond the pursuit of power towards building a united nation founded on justice, strong institutions, the rule of law, and equal opportunity.

Meanwhile, Justice Isah Dashen of the Federal High Court in Lokoja vacated the December 10, 2025 judgment. The judge reasoned that the initial ruling negatively impacted the rights of the Peace Movement Party (PMP), which had not been included in the proceedings despite claiming ownership of the logo used to secure the original judgment. The court ordered all parties to revert to their positions prior to the December 10 ruling.

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My concern is not about who becomes President. My concern is that Nigeria works. Our politics must move beyond the quest for power and focus instead on building a united nation founded on justice, strong institutions, the rule of law and equal opportunity.