Federal High Court Deregisters ADC, Four Other Parties Over Constitutional Violations

A Federal High Court has ordered the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and four other political parties over alleged violations of constitutional and regulatory requirements governing political party operations in Nigeria.

The ruling, delivered on Monday, followed a legal challenge alleging that the affected parties failed to comply with provisions of the Nigerian Constitution and electoral regulations, including requirements related to internal party administration, democratic processes, and statutory obligations.

According to court documents, the petitioners argued that the parties had repeatedly breached constitutional provisions designed to ensure transparency, accountability, and democratic governance within political organizations. The court agreed that the evidence presented established grounds for regulatory action.

The judgment directs the relevant electoral authorities to take immediate steps to implement the deregistration order in accordance with the law. Legal experts say the decision could have significant implications for Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly ahead of future elections.

The affected parties are expected to challenge the ruling through the appellate courts, arguing that the decision undermines political pluralism and the constitutional rights of their members and supporters.

Political analysts have described the judgment as a landmark development that could reshape the country's party system by enforcing stricter compliance with constitutional and electoral requirements.

Meanwhile, stakeholders have called for calm and urged all parties involved to respect the judicial process as the legal battle continues.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is expected to review the court's directives and determine the appropriate next steps in line with existing electoral laws.