Nigeria's NDC Deregistered by Court as 2027 Election Battles Intensify

A Federal High Court in Lokoja set aside a 2025 judgment that had ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission to register the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). The ruling, delivered by Justice Isa H. Dashen, nullified the NDC’s registration on procedural grounds after a challenge by the Peace Movement Party. Party leaders Seriake Dickson and Rabiu Kwankwaso met in Abuja to reaffirm their commitment to the party and to the 2027 general election despite the setback, urging supporters to remain calm and confident in the judicial process.

Former Vice‑President Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), alleged that elements within the ruling All Progressives Congress are plotting to keep the ADC off the ballot, calling the alleged scheme an attack on Nigeria’s democracy. He warned that the ruling party is using political and legal manoeuvres to exclude opposition parties.

President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media, Sunday Dare, dismissed the opposition’s claims, stating that NDC candidate Peter Obi no longer poses a threat to the administration’s re‑election bid and that the government will regain Lagos State in 2027.

The developments occur as various political figures, including APC members and regional leaders, campaign for support ahead of the 2027 elections, highlighting the contentious and highly competitive nature of Nigeria’s upcoming electoral cycle.