By Oluwakemi Kindness
The Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Peter Lifu, has adjourned hearing in a suit seeking the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Accord Party, Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), and Action Alliance (AA), over alleged breaches of Section 225 of the 1999 Constitution.
The suit was filed by the National Forum of Former Legislators (NFFL), which is asking the court to compel the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to enforce constitutional requirements guiding the registration and operation of political parties in Nigeria.
Justice Lifu fixed May 5 for hearing of the matter after granting the plaintiffs leave to amend their originating summons.
The amendment will allow additional political parties allegedly in breach of constitutional provisions to be formally joined in the suit.
The former lawmakers argued that all affected parties must be properly included in the case to ensure fair hearing and due process.
The court also directed all parties to file and exchange relevant legal processes on or before May 1, ahead of the next hearing date.
Opposition and Legal Arguments
In the substantive suit, the NFFL is urging the court to invoke Order 7 Rule 6 of the Federal High Court Civil Procedure Rules to grant its request in the interest of justice.
However, the application was opposed by the ADC, which challenged its competence and validity before the court.
The plaintiffs are seeking declaratory orders compelling INEC to strictly enforce constitutional provisions regulating political party operations in Nigeria.
They are also requesting mandatory and perpetual injunctions restraining INEC from recognizing or allowing the affected political parties to engage in political activities until full compliance with the law is achieved.
Concern Over Electoral Process
According to the plaintiffs, allowing the affected parties to participate in the 2027 general elections could lead to overcrowded ballot papers, increased public spending, and a potential compromise of electoral integrity.
Justice Lifu, in his ruling, emphasized the urgency of the matter, noting its significance to public interest and the upcoming electoral timeline. He directed all parties yet to respond to the amended summons to do so promptly.
