Kogi’s Judgment Is Judicial Coup Against Democracy – NDC Rep
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has rejected the Federal High Court ruling in Lokoja that set aside the earlier judgment ordering the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register the party.
The party announced it would challenge the decision at the Court of Appeal. Peter Obi and several opposition groups also criticised the judgment.
The court ruled that its 2025 decision could not stand because all parties connected to the case were not included in the proceedings.
It directed that the matter should begin afresh with INEC, the Peace Movement Party and the NDC participating in the fresh hearing.
NDC National Chairman Moses Cleopas insisted the ruling did not amount to the party’s deregistration.
He said the party remained active, its programmes would continue, and its lawyers had already begun the process of appealing the judgment.
He also accused some interests of trying to weaken opposition parties before the 2027 elections.
Obi described the ruling as another setback for democracy, saying strong institutions were vital for Nigeria’s future.
The Turaki-led PDP faction, NDC lawmakers and support groups linked to Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso also condemned the judgment, warning that it could reduce political competition ahead of the next general election.
