Nigeria Court Orders Deregistration of Five Parties Ahead of 2027 Election

Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja ruled that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should deregister five political parties – the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Accord Party (AP) and three others – after a suit filed by the National Forum of Former Legislators. The decision ignored an earlier Court of Appeal ruling from May 22, 2026 that had instructed the deregistration case be put on hold. The Appeal Court subsequently accused Justice Lifu of breaching the hierarchy of courts, calling his action “judicial misconduct” and adjourned the matter to July 7 for the parties to exchange briefs. The case raises questions about the judiciary’s independence, the legal standing of former legislators, and the constitutional basis for party deregistration under Section 225A of the 1999 Constitution, at a time when Nigeria is preparing for the 2027 general elections. Concerns are voiced that such disputes could undermine public confidence in the electoral process and the rule of law.