Atiku Condemns Court Order for ADC Deregistration, Alleges Political Targeting Ahead of 2027

Presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has condemned a Federal High Court ruling ordering the deregistration of the party, describing it as a threat to Nigeria’s democratic system.

The court in Abuja had on Monday directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the ADC and four other political parties for allegedly failing to meet the required electoral performance benchmarks in the 2023 general elections and subsequent by-elections.

The affected parties include the Action Peoples Party (APP), Action Alliance (AA), Accord Party (AP), and the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).

“Atiku Abubakar has described the judgement as a dangerous escalation of authoritarian tendencies and an assault on Nigeria’s democracy,” his media aide, Phrank Shaibu, said in a statement.

ALSO READ: Emeka Ike Drags INEC, Wike’s Aide to Court Over Alleged Data Privacy Breach, Demands ₦10bn

He further alleged that the ruling reflected an attempt to weaken opposition forces ahead of the 2027 general elections and expressed concern over its timing and legal basis.

Atiku noted that the judgment was delivered despite a subsisting order of the Court of Appeal reportedly staying further proceedings in the matter.

“The Court of Appeal had already granted a stay of proceedings on May 22, 2026, and the implication is clear, as no further judicial action should have been taken,” he said.

ALSO READ: Oshiomhole Claims Some Senators’ Signatures Were Falsely Included in Akpoti-Uduaghan Suspension Report

He argued that proceeding with the judgment despite the appellate order raises serious concerns about respect for judicial hierarchy and the rule of law.

The former vice-president further alleged that the development forms part of a broader pattern of political pressure against opposition parties and institutions.

“It is increasingly clear that opposition platforms are being targeted while state power is being used in ways that undermine democratic competition rather than strengthen governance,” he said.

Atiku urged ADC members and supporters not to be discouraged by the ruling, insisting that the party remains committed to democratic participation and legal redress.

ALSO READ: ADC picks Amaechi as Atiku’s running mate for 2027

“We assure our members and supporters that we will not be intimidated, and we will continue to defend democratic freedoms through all constitutional means available,” he said.

He described the situation as a broader struggle for the survival of Nigeria’s multiparty democracy and urged citizens to remain vigilant.

“At stake is not just a political party, but the future of democratic choice in Nigeria, and it must not be surrendered cheaply,” he added.

ADVERTISE WITH US

Do you want to reach your targeted audience and expand your brand’s visibility?

Advertise with Polity Reporters to place your “message” before the right audience.

For advertising enquiries, reach us through:

Email: bandcommunications001@gmail.com

Facebook: Polity Reporters

WhatsApp: 07043810558

“Journalism is what we need to make democracy work.”

“News is what somebody somewhere wants to suppress; all the rest is advertising.”

“Journalism can never be silent: that is its greatest virtue and its greatest fault.”

“The duty of a journalist is to convey the truth as clearly and fully as possible.”

“Good journalism is about results. It is about affecting your community or your society in the most progressive way.”

“Journalism is printing what someone else does not want printed; everything else is public relations.”

“A free press is not a privilege but an organic necessity in a great society.”

“The press was to serve the governed, not the governors.”

“Journalism without a moral position is impossible.”

“The function of journalism is to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable.”

Polity Reporters

Polity Reporters brings you news from Nigeria and around the world. The team follows developments closely and reports in a way that helps readers understand what is happening locally and internationally. Every piece is clear, reliable, and useful for anyone who wants to stay informed.