The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is preparing to remove the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) from its register of political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections. This action follows a ruling by Justice Isah Dashen of the Federal High Court in Lokoja, which set aside an earlier judgment from December 10, 2025, that had directed INEC to register the NDC as a political party.
INEC Awaits Certified True Copy of Judgment
INEC has stated that it has applied for the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the latest judgment. Mohammed Kudu Haruna, the INEC Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, confirmed that the commission will act in accordance with the court's decision upon receipt of the CTC. Haruna noted, "We have applied for the Certified True Copy of the judgment. Until we receive it, we cannot be in a position to comment on it. However, the position that existed before the December 10, 2025 judgment was that INEC rejected NDC’s letter of intent to be registered as a political party."
Background of the Case
The NDC had previously secured a court order on December 10, 2025, compelling INEC to register the party. That ruling was overturned by Justice Dashen, effectively restoring INEC's original stance of rejecting the NDC's application. The commission's decision to deregister the party underscores the legal reversal and its implications for the political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
Impact on Political Landscape
The deregistration of the NDC reduces the number of registered political parties in Nigeria, potentially affecting electoral dynamics. The NDC, which sought to participate in the 2027 elections, will now be unable to field candidates unless further legal actions are taken. INEC's adherence to the court ruling highlights its commitment to legal procedures, as emphasized by Haruna's cautious approach pending the CTC.
