A Federal High Court in Abuja has indefinitely adjourned a high-profile suit seeking the deregistration of several political parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Action Alliance (AA), Accord Party, Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), and Action Peoples Party (APP).
The case, which has attracted significant political attention ahead of the 2027 general elections, was filed by the Incorporated Trustees of the National Forum of Former Legislators (NFFL). The group is asking the court to compel the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the affected parties for allegedly failing to meet constitutional requirements for continued recognition.
At the latest hearing, legal arguments centered on pending appeals and applications related to the case. Some of the defendants urged the court to suspend proceedings, arguing that related matters are already before the Court of Appeal and should be resolved first. They maintained that continuing with the case could interfere with issues currently under appellate consideration.
After listening to submissions from all parties, the court decided to adjourn the matter indefinitely, leaving the future of the suit uncertain for now. The development means that no immediate ruling will be delivered on the request to deregister the affected political parties.
The plaintiffs argue that the parties in question have consistently failed to achieve the electoral benchmarks required under the Constitution. They contend that allowing such parties to remain registered could contribute to ballot congestion, increase election costs, and complicate electoral administration.
On the other hand, the affected parties have opposed the suit, insisting that they remain legally recognized political organizations and are entitled to participate in Nigeria’s democratic process. Their lawyers have also challenged aspects of the case and sought various legal remedies to halt or delay proceedings.
The lawsuit remains one of the most closely watched electoral cases in the country, as its eventual outcome could have far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s political landscape and the preparation for the 2027 general elections.
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