The Court of Appeal in Abuja has suspended the execution of the Federal High Court judgment that ordered the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and four other political parties, providing a major reprieve for the affected parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a ruling delivered by a three-member panel, the appellate court ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to maintain the status quo and refrain from implementing the lower court’s judgment pending the determination of substantive appeals.
Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court had earlier directed INEC to deregister the ADC, Accord Party, Action Alliance, Action Peoples Party and Zenith Labour Party for allegedly failing to meet constitutional requirements relating to electoral performance.
However, counsel to the affected parties argued that the lower court proceeded with the judgment despite an earlier order of the Court of Appeal staying further proceedings in the matter.
INEC, through its legal team, supported the application for a stay of execution, stating that it was unaware the judgment would be delivered and only became aware of the decision through media reports.
The appellate court held that it had a duty to ensure obedience to its orders and consequently suspended the enforcement of the judgment until the appeals are heard and determined.
The ruling effectively preserves the legal status of the five parties and allows them to continue political activities while the substantive case is pending, in what analysts say could have significant implications for Nigeria’s evolving political landscape ahead of the next general elections.
