Appeal Court Restores ADC, Four Other Political Parties Ahead of 2027 Elections

The Court of Appeal in Abuja has nullified a Federal High Court judgment directing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and four other political parties, clearing the way for them to remain on Nigeria's electoral register ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a unanimous judgment delivered by a three-member panel led by Justice Abba Mohammed, the appellate court held that the June 15 ruling of the Federal High Court was a nullity because the lower court lacked jurisdiction to entertain the case. The court found that the suit was filed by a non-juristic entity, meaning there was no valid legal action upon which the deregistration order could be based.

Court Faults High Court's Decision

The appellate court also criticised the Federal High Court for failing to properly evaluate evidence presented by the affected political parties.

According to the judgment, documents showing that the parties had won elective positions in previous elections were ignored. The Court of Appeal further held that the trial court proceeded with the matter despite an earlier order directing it to stay proceedings pending the determination of an interlocutory appeal.

Five Political Parties Retain Registration

With the ruling, the Court of Appeal affirmed that the following parties remain legally registered with INEC:

• African Democratic Congress (ADC)

• Action Peoples Party (APP)

• Action Alliance (AA)

• Accord Party (AP)

• Zenith Labour Party (ZLP)

The court also awarded costs against the National Forum of Former Legislators (NFFL), the group that instituted the suit seeking the parties' deregistration.

Implications for 2027 Elections

The judgment is seen as a significant development ahead of the 2027 general elections, as it ensures that the five political parties remain eligible to sponsor candidates and participate fully in Nigeria's electoral process.

The decision also reinforces the principle that courts must have proper jurisdiction before making orders with far-reaching constitutional and political consequences.