Court to hear suit on ADC deregistration in February 2026
The Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled a hearing for a suit seeking the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress and other parties. The case, filed by the National Forum of Former Legislators, targets the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and several political parties for alleged constitutional breaches. The plaintiffs argue that some parties failed to meet electoral performance thresholds and should be deregistered. The court has fixed February 24, 2026, for further proceedings.
Key takeaways
- The suit was filed by the Incorporated Trustees of the National Forum of Former Legislators against INEC, the Attorney-General, and five political parties, including the African Democratic Congress.
- The plaintiffs claim the parties failed to win any ward, legislative seat, or elective office since their registration.
- The case seeks judicial interpretation of constitutional and statutory provisions on party registration and recognition.
- The plaintiffs want the court to compel INEC to deregister parties that did not meet the required performance benchmarks.
- Justice Peter Lifu adjourned the matter to February 24, 2026, for further proceedings.
