Appeal Court reinstates ADC, four parties after overturning deregistration order
In a June 2024 ruling, Abuja's Court of Appeal overturned a Federal High Court order to deregister the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and four other parties, stating the suit by the National Forum of Former Legislators (NFFL) lacked jurisdiction as it was filed by a non-juristic entity. The unanimous three-judge panel found Justice Peter Lifu ignored a May 22 stay order and overlooked electoral victories proving the parties' eligibility for continued registration.
The appellate court held that the Federal High Court erred in assuming jurisdiction and issuing the deregistration directive, emphasizing that proof of past electoral wins—required under Section 225A of the Constitution and the Electoral Act 2022—was disregarded. Justice Abba Mohammed described the trial judge's defiance of the stay order as "judicial impertinence" and "judicial rascality," noting such conduct renders a judge "unfit for the bench." Consequently, ADC, APP, AA, AP and ZLP remain duly registered political parties.
This decision clears the way for these parties to participate in the 2027 general elections, allowing them to nominate candidates and engage in political activities without INEC restrictions. The court also awarded costs against NFFL for initiating the suit. With the parties' registrations restored, what impact might their renewed electoral presence have on Nigeria's political landscape ahead of the 2027 polls?