Court of Appeal Affirms ADC's Legal Status in Nigeria

On Tuesday, the Court of Appeal nullified a Federal High Court ruling that ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the African Democratic Congress (ADC) along with four other political parties. David Mark, the National Chairman of the ADC, described the appellate court's decision as a significant victory for democracy, constitutionalism, and the rule of law.

He stated that the ruling reaffirmed the judiciary's role in protecting democratic values and citizens' rights. Mark criticized the attempt to deregister the ADC as an assault on Nigeria's multiparty system and emphasized the importance of the judiciary in maintaining public confidence in democratic institutions.

He urged party members to intensify grassroots mobilization in preparation for the 2027 general elections, reaffirming the ADC's commitment to democracy and national unity. The Court of Appeal ruled that the Federal High Court lacked jurisdiction in the case, as it was filed by the National Forum of Former Legislators, which was deemed not a juristic person capable of instituting the action.