Court Restores ADC, Celebrated by Opposition Leaders

The Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja restored the legal status of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and four other political parties by overturning a June 15 judgment from the Federal High Court that had ordered their deregistration by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The appellate court ruled that the lower court lacked jurisdiction over the case brought by the National Forum of Former Legislators, which was deemed not a juristic person with the capacity to sue.

Justice Abba Mohammed criticized the trial court for ignoring evidence that showed the parties had previously won elections and condemned Justice Lifu for proceeding with the case despite a stay order. The Court of Appeal's ruling was celebrated by opposition leaders, including ADC national chairman David Mark, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, and Action Alliance presidential candidate Adekunle Omoaje, who viewed it as a significant victory for constitutional democracy and Nigeria's multiparty system.

The court awarded costs against the National Forum of Former Legislators.