Peter Obi Says Court Order Deregistering ADC, Accord and Other Political Parties Should Be Reversed

By Desmond Ogbonmwan

Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has criticized a Federal High Court ruling ordering the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Accord Party and three other political parties, describing the judgment as a development that could further weaken public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

Justice Peter Odo Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to immediately deregister the affected political parties over alleged constitutional breaches.

Reacting to the judgment, Obi said the ruling should be reversed, warning that actions capable of undermining public trust in key institutions could have far-reaching consequences for Nigeria’s democracy and economy.

In a statement released on Monday, the former Anambra State governor linked the development to what he described as a gradual erosion of confidence in institutions that are meant to safeguard justice, fairness and democratic participation.

Obi Raises Concerns Over Institutional Independence

According to Obi, concerns about the strength and independence of Nigeria’s institutions are not new.

He recalled his reaction during the controversy surrounding the removal of former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Walter Onnoghen, noting that the greatest damage caused by such events is often the signal they send about the credibility and independence of public institutions.

“When the controversy surrounding the removal of former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Walter Onnoghen, unfolded, I expressed a concern to a friend that the greatest damage might not be immediate, but the message it sends about the sanctity and independence of our institutions to the world,” Obi said.

He argued that strong economies are built on trust and that investors are often more concerned about legal uncertainty than other forms of risk.

According to him, businesses can navigate security, policy and market challenges, but become reluctant to invest when confidence in the rule of law is weakened.

Investors Need Confidence in the Rule of Law

Obi stated that confidence in the judiciary remains one of the most important foundations of economic growth and national development.

He noted that many businesses now prefer contracts governed by foreign jurisdictions because they have greater confidence in those legal systems than in Nigeria’s institutions.

“Strong economies are built on trust. Investors can manage security risks, policy risks and even market risks. What they fear most is uncertainty in the rule of law and a judiciary that is perceived to be vulnerable to political pressure,” he said.

According to Obi, the trend should concern all Nigerians because it reflects declining public confidence in institutions that should ordinarily command respect and trust.

Call for Reversal of the Judgment

The former presidential candidate argued that institutions must never be sacrificed for political interests.

He maintained that nations make progress when institutions remain stronger than individuals and operate independently without undue influence.

Obi specifically described the judgment ordering the deregistration of ADC and other parties as one of several developments capable of reducing citizens’ trust in the legal system.

“The Federal High Court judgment ordering the de-registration of the ADC and other political parties is just one of those activities that further reduces the common man’s trust in our legal systems. It should be reversed,” he stated.

His comments are likely to generate debate among legal experts, political stakeholders and supporters of the affected parties.

Growing Debate Over Political Space

The ruling has reignited discussions about political pluralism and the role of smaller political parties in Nigeria’s democracy.

Supporters of the judgment argue that political parties must comply with constitutional and regulatory requirements to remain registered.

Others, however, believe that removing political parties from the electoral landscape could reduce political participation and limit democratic choices available to voters.

The affected parties have yet to fully respond to the court’s decision, while attention is expected to shift to INEC and any potential legal challenges that may follow.

Obi Promises Institutional Reforms

Obi also used the opportunity to reiterate his commitment to strengthening the judiciary and restoring public confidence in democratic institutions.

According to him, justice must remain impartial, accessible and free from political interference.

He pledged that future reforms should focus on protecting the rights of ordinary citizens and creating an environment where businesses can operate without fear of legal uncertainty.

“I pledge that we will restore the dignity, independence and integrity of the judiciary. The common man must have a voice. The business community must be protected from legal uncertainty and intimidation. Justice must be impartial, accessible and respected by all,” he said.

Why the Issue Matters

The controversy surrounding the deregistration of political parties comes at a time when discussions about electoral reforms, democratic participation and institutional independence are becoming increasingly prominent ahead of future elections.

Political analysts note that confidence in institutions remains a key factor in strengthening democracy, attracting investment and ensuring stability.

Whether the judgment stands or is overturned through further legal processes, Obi’s comments have once again placed the spotlight on broader concerns regarding the rule of law, judicial independence and the future of Nigeria’s democratic system.

As reactions continue to emerge, many Nigerians will be watching closely to see how the courts, INEC and political stakeholders respond to the growing debate.