Rabiu Kwankwaso urges calm as Nigerian Democratic Congress faces court‑ordered deregistration

Rabiu Kwankwaso, the vice‑presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), called on party members, supporters and the wider public to remain calm and resolute after a court in Lokoja set aside a previous judgment that had ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register the party. The judge ruled that the earlier decision was invalid because it was based on a lawsuit filed by the non‑registered Peace Movement Party over the party’s logo.

Kwankwaso expressed disappointment with the ruling, stating, “As true democrats, we remain committed to the rule of law and have absolute confidence in the judicial process.” He announced plans to appeal the decision and asked supporters, especially the Kwankwasiyya and Obidient movements, to stay patient while legal steps are taken. Earlier, Kwankwaso visited NDC national leader Seriake Dickson in Abuja, emphasizing the party’s commitment to democratic principles and its preparation for the 2027 general elections.

Meanwhile, INEC has not appealed the original judgment and has continued to engage with the NDC, attending its congresses and conventions. Kwankwaso urged all stakeholders to await a favourable outcome in court and reaffirmed his belief that “Nigeria will be OK.”