The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) ahead of the 2027 elections, Peter Obi, has criticised the Federal High Court judgment ordering the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and four other political parties.
Obi described the ruling as a development that could further weaken public confidence in the nation’s institutions, warning that Nigeria’s democratic structures should not be compromised for political interests.
The former Anambra State governor reacted to the judgment delivered by Justice Peter Lifu, which directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister ADC, Accord, Action Alliance (AA), Action Peoples Party (APP), and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).
The court ruled that the affected parties failed to meet constitutional requirements, including securing the required percentage of votes in the last general elections.
In a statement shared on his X handle, Obi expressed concern over what he described as growing uncertainty around the independence and credibility of Nigeria’s institutions.
He said strong economies depend on trust, adding that investors are more concerned about uncertainty in the rule of law and the perception that institutions may be influenced by political pressure.
According to him, the decline in confidence in Nigeria’s legal system has led some businesses to prefer foreign jurisdictions for contractual agreements.
Obi argued that institutions must remain stronger than individuals, stressing that the judiciary should continue to serve as a symbol of justice and fairness.
He said the court decision on the deregistration of the political parties was among developments that could reduce citizens’ trust in the legal system and called for a reversal of the judgment.
The former Labour Party presidential candidate also pledged that his administration, if given the opportunity, would work towards restoring the independence, dignity, and integrity of the judiciary.
He maintained that ordinary Nigerians must have access to justice, while the business community should be protected from legal uncertainty.
Obi urged judges, senior advocates, lawyers, and other stakeholders in the legal profession to defend the rule of law and ensure that justice remains impartial and respected.
He concluded that a stronger Nigeria would emerge when national institutions are strengthened and protected above political interests.
