Party deregistration ruling Nigeria sparks backlash as SDP’s Adebayo calls it unconstitutional and a threat to democracy ahead of 2027 elections
The 2023 presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party, Prince Adewole Adebayo, has strongly criticised a Federal High Court judgment ordering the deregistration of several political parties, describing the decision as unconstitutional, undemocratic and a serious threat to Nigeria’s democratic stability.
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The reaction followed a ruling delivered by Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja, which directed the Independent National Electoral Commission to deregister the African Democratic Congress, Accord Party, Action Alliance, Action Peoples Party and Zenith Labour Party, and bar them from participating in the 2027 general elections.
Prince Adewole Adebayo, in a statement posted on his X handle, said the party deregistration ruling Nigeria raises fundamental concerns about political freedom and democratic inclusion.
He argued that no legal or moral justification exists for suppressing alternative political platforms through judicial backing.
Although the Social Democratic Party was not affected by the ruling, Adebayo stressed that silence in the face of what he described as injustice would amount to abandoning democratic principles. He called for solidarity with the affected parties and urged Nigerians to defend political pluralism.
He further noted that Nigeria’s diversity requires multiple political platforms to allow citizens freely express ideological and regional interests, warning that limiting such participation could deepen political tension.
Adebayo also advocated constitutional reforms that would strip INEC of powers to register or deregister political parties, proposing instead a system where political associations freely contest elections under regulated conditions, with performance-based requirements determining their continuation.
The party deregistration ruling Nigeria has triggered widespread political debate, with several stakeholders expressing concern over its potential impact on opposition participation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Also read: Rufai Oseni Raises Alarm Over Opposition Ballot Threat
Justice Lifu’s ruling, which has already drawn reactions from affected parties, is expected to face appeals in higher courts as legal and political discussions intensify across the country.
