A prominent group of former Nigerian legislators has taken a major legal step, asking a Federal High Court to strip five political parties of their official registration. The case, which targets the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and four others, is scheduled for a crucial hearing on February 16, 2026.
Court Sets Date for Landmark Deregistration Hearing
The lawsuit, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, carries the case number FHC/ABJ/CS/2637/2025. The plaintiff is the National Forum of Former Legislators (NFFL), an association of ex-lawmakers from both federal and state levels. The defendants listed are the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Accord Party, Zenith Labour Party, Action Alliance (AA), and the Action Peoples Party (APP).
The core argument from the NFFL is that these parties have persistently failed to meet the mandatory performance standards and statutory obligations required by the Nigerian Constitution. The forum is specifically invoking Section 225A of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which provides the legal basis for withdrawing recognition from political parties that do not satisfy set benchmarks.
Legal Grounds and Broader Democratic Concerns
National Coordinator of the NFFL, Raphael Igbokwe, explained the group's motivation. He argued that allowing parties which consistently fall below constitutional thresholds to continue operating actively undermines democratic accountability and weakens the integrity of the country's electoral process.
The forum insists its action is not partisan but is driven by a fundamental concern for constitutionalism, electoral integrity, and the consolidation of Nigeria's democracy. They highlight several negative consequences of maintaining what they call "weak and non-compliant" parties:
- It places an unnecessary administrative and financial strain on the electoral management body.
- It creates confusion among voters due to a crowded ballot.
- It adds little to no value to genuine democratic competition.
Seeking Judicial Clarity for a Stronger Multi-Party System
Beyond simply seeking deregistration, the NFFL stated it is pursuing a "clear and authoritative judicial interpretation" of Section 225A of the Constitution. They believe such a ruling would strengthen compliance across Nigeria's multi-party political landscape.
The group reiterated its commitment to protecting democratic institutions and strengthening constitutional governance. The outcome of this case, set for hearing in February, could have significant implications for the structure and regulation of political parties in Nigeria, potentially leading to a more streamlined and performance-based party system.
