NDC Rejects Court Ruling, Plans to Appeal Registration Status

The Nigeria Democrat Congress (NDC) has officially rejected a ruling from the Federal High Court in Lokoja that questioned its registration status. NDC Chairman Mose Zuwogh stated that the party remains validly registered and has instructed its lawyers to challenge the ruling in an appeal.

The court's earlier judgment, which compelled the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register political parties, was set aside, leading to the NDC's assertion that the ruling violates its constitutional rights and freedom of association. The NDC plans to submit its candidates for the 2027 general elections and argues that the ruling could stifle opposition voices in Nigeria's democratic space.

Zuwogh emphasized that the NDC has not been deregistered and condemned any attempts to limit democratic participation. The party is prepared to file an appeal within the prescribed period to overturn the court's decision.