Nigeria’s opposition parties have launched a major legal and political challenge against a Federal High Court ruling ordering the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and four other political parties, warning that the decision could reshape the country’s multiparty democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The ruling, delivered by Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja, directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remove the affected parties from the register after a suit filed by the National Forum of Former Legislators argued that they failed to meet constitutional requirements for continued registration.

The plaintiffs claimed the parties did not satisfy electoral performance thresholds outlined under Section 225A of the 1999 Constitution and the Electoral Act 2022, including securing at least one elective seat or achieving prescribed vote percentages during elections.

The decision has triggered widespread criticism from opposition leaders, who argue that the judgment threatens political competition and could reduce voter choices ahead of the 2027 polls.

Former Vice President and ADC presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, described the judgment as a serious threat to Nigeria’s democratic system, alleging that it was part of a broader effort to weaken opposition parties before the next election.

In a statement issued through his spokesperson, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku questioned the legality of the ruling, claiming it was delivered despite an earlier Court of Appeal order staying proceedings in the matter.

He argued that the development raised concerns about judicial authority, constitutional governance and respect for the rule of law.

According to Atiku, the deregistration attempt was not only about political parties but about protecting Nigerians’ right to choose among competing political alternatives.

He vowed that the ADC would pursue all legal avenues to challenge the decision.

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke also criticised the judgment, saying the ruling conflicted with an existing Court of Appeal order.

Adeleke urged supporters to remain calm, insisting that democratic rights would ultimately prevail.

He said the legal team representing the affected parties was taking steps to address the matter while encouraging party members to continue preparations for upcoming elections.

The ADC rejected the ruling, describing it as a dangerous development for Nigeria’s democracy.

The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, said the judgment contradicted INEC’s position that the party had not violated any constitutional requirement for continued registration.

The party accused political actors of attempting to use state institutions to weaken opposition forces ahead of 2027.

ADC warned that removing opposition parties from the ballot could create political instability and undermine public confidence in the electoral process.

ADC National Chairman, Senator David Mark, said the ruling would not survive judicial scrutiny, expressing confidence that higher courts would overturn it.

He urged party members and candidates to remain committed, insisting that ADC would participate in the 2027 elections.

Other opposition figures also criticised the ruling, describing it as a development capable of increasing political tension ahead of the elections.

Some argued that while the Constitution allows for party deregistration under certain conditions, the timing and circumstances surrounding the case required closer scrutiny.

Legal analysts are expected to closely watch the appeal process, particularly the question of whether the Federal High Court acted within its authority given the alleged stay of proceedings by the Court of Appeal.

The controversy has intensified debate over Nigeria’s electoral framework, judicial independence and the future of opposition politics as the country moves toward the 2027 presidential election.