Court Ruling Against NDC Sparks Outcry from Leaders

On June 26, 2026, the Federal High Court in Lokoja, Kogi State, presided over by Justice Isah Dashen, set aside an earlier judgment that recognized the Nigeria Democratic Coalition (NDC). This ruling has drawn significant condemnation from various political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and human rights lawyer Femi Falana.

They argue that the decision directs the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the NDC, which they view as an attempt to undermine opposition parties and weaken Nigeria's democratic framework ahead of the 2027 elections. Atiku Abubakar described the ruling as a manifestation of President Bola Tinubu's desperate attempts to impose a de facto party system in Nigeria, warning that it could lead to chaos and undermine citizens' rights to free and fair elections.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) also expressed concerns about the implications of the ruling for democracy in Nigeria, highlighting the ongoing threats to opposition parties and the electoral process.