Court Adjourns Suit Seeking Deregistration of ADC, Others to May 5

The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned proceedings in a suit seeking the deregistration of several political parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC), to May 5, 2026.

Presiding judge, Justice Peter Lifu, fixed the date after granting an application by the National Forum of Former Legislators (NFFL) to amend its originating summons. The amendment enables the inclusion of additional political parties—namely the Accord Party, Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), and Action Alliance (AA)—allegedly in breach of constitutional provisions.

In a brief ruling, Justice Lifu directed all parties that are yet to respond to the amended summons to do so without delay, emphasizing the urgency and public significance of the case. He noted that with political party primaries approaching ahead of the 2027 general elections, the matter requires accelerated determination.

The court ordered all parties to file and exchange necessary legal processes on or before May 1, ahead of the next hearing date.

The suit, filed by the NFFL, seeks the enforcement of provisions under Section 225 of the 1999 Constitution, which outlines financial and operational requirements for registered political parties. The plaintiffs are urging the court to compel the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to enforce compliance.

Specifically, the group is asking the court to grant declaratory reliefs, as well as mandatory and perpetual injunctions restraining INEC from recognizing or giving effect to the activities of the affected parties until they meet constitutional standards.

The plaintiffs also invoked Order 7 Rule 6 of the Federal High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules, arguing that the court should exercise its powers in the interest of justice.

However, the ADC opposed the application, contending that it is legally incompetent and should be dismissed.

According to the plaintiffs, permitting the affected parties to participate in the 2027 general elections without full compliance with constitutional requirements would overcrowd ballot papers, strain public resources, and potentially undermine the integrity of the electoral process.

The matter is expected to resume on May 5 for substantive hearing.