FG Seeks Court Order to Deregister Five Political Parties

The Federal Government of Nigeria has approached the Federal High Court in Abuja, represented by the Attorney General of the Federation, to compel the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister five political parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Accord Party. The suit, numbered FHC/ABJ/CS/2637/2026, argues that these parties have not met the legal requirements to remain active, as outlined in the 1999 Constitution and the Electoral Act of 2022.

The Attorney General contends that INEC's continued recognition of these parties violates constitutional provisions governing political participation in Nigeria. The plaintiff, represented by the National Forum and former legislators, insists that once a party fails to meet electoral performance benchmarks, it should be deregistered without discretion.

The suit also seeks to bar these parties from participating in future elections and prevent them from organizing campaigns until they meet constitutional requirements. The case emphasizes the need for stricter measures to ensure a credible electoral process in Nigeria.