Deregistering ADC, others threatens 2027 elections – AA chair, Udeze

The Action Alliance, AA, has faulted the Abuja Federal High Court’s decision that deregistered the African Democratic Congress, ADC, and four other political parties, describing the ruling as a threat to the 2027 elections.

AA National Chairman, Kenneth Udeze, expressed concerns that such an action might weaken Nigeria’s democratic system and disrupt efforts to organize for the 2027 elections.

In a statement he issued on Tuesday, Udeze raised concerns that political parties are already working to gather support and prepare for the upcoming election period.

“Democracy thrives on diversity of ideas and platforms. Nigerians deserve broader opportunities to express their political aspirations, not a shrinking democratic space,” he said.

Udeze noted that while the party respects the courts and the law, the decision brings up important concerns over inclusive democracy and free and fair elections.

The AA chairman also noted that the development is especially concerning because the Court of Appeal had reportedly paused the legal process related  to the suit.

He said, “Nigerians should have more chances to share their political hopes, not fewer opportunities in a democracy.”

The party cautioned that ceasing the registration of political parties before a general election could lead to the disenfranchisement of members, disruption of years of political organization, and potentially harmful tensions within the government.

According to the party, issues relating to following rules and election laws should be handled through discussion, changes and proper procedures, instead of removing someone’s registration during an ongoing election.

The party emphasized that building stronger democratic institutions should come first, rather than taking steps that might seem like they are excluding people.

“A healthy democracy cannot be built on exclusion,” the statement said.