Court to Hear ADC Deregistration Suit on February 24, 2026

The Federal High Court in Abuja has set February 24, 2026, to hear a suit seeking to compel the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and other political parties. The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2637/25, was filed by the Nation Forum, represented by former legislators against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Attorney General of the Federation.

The plaintiffs, led by Yakubu Ruba, argue that INEC is constitutionally bound to deregister parties that fail to meet the minimum electoral performance threshold, which includes securing at least 25% of votes in presidential elections and winning at least one seat in various electoral levels. The plaintiffs seek a declaratory order affirming INEC's duty to enforce these benchmarks and compel the deregistration of parties that do not comply.

The matter was adjourned by Justice Peter Lifu, who noted that the case had not been heard yet. The plaintiffs claim that INEC has neglected its duty by continuing to recognize parties that allegedly fail to meet these requirements.