FHC in Lokoja nullifies verdict ordering INEC to register NDC as political party

A Federal High Court sitting in Lokoja has set aside an earlier judgment that directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) as a political party.

The ruling was delivered on Friday by Justice Isah Dashen.

The development was disclosed in a post on X by Lere Olayinka, media aide to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.

The latest judgment comes amid ongoing legal challenges involving several political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Accord Party are among those affected by recent court decisions.

Earlier, a Federal High Court in Abuja ordered INEC to deregister the ADC, Accord Party and three other political associations following a suit filed by the National Forum of Former Legislators.

The plaintiffs argued that the affected parties failed to satisfy the constitutional requirements for retaining their registration.

Under Nigerian law, a political party must secure at least 25 per cent of votes in one state during a presidential election or win at least one elective position at the national, state or local government level to remain registered.

The court held that the affected parties failed to meet these constitutional thresholds in the 2023 general election and subsequent by-elections.

Further details are expected.