By Daily Review Online
The House of Representatives Caucus of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has condemned a Federal High Court ruling in Lokoja that purportedly de-registered the party, describing the decision as “judicial banditry” and an attempt to undermine Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on Friday and signed by the leader of the caucus, Hon. Afam Victor Ogene, the lawmakers rejected the court order, insisting that it was unconstitutional and amounted to a calculated effort to weaken the opposition.
The caucus argued that the judgment was not merely a legal error but “a judicial coup against democracy,” alleging that it formed part of a broader pattern of judicial harassment aimed at opposition political parties.
According to the lawmakers, the statutory 90-day period for challenging the registration of the NDC had long expired, while the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which they described as the only constitutionally empowered body on party registration, was not the party seeking the court order.
They also accused those behind the suit of “forum shopping,” alleging that the matter was returned to the same court that had earlier ordered INEC to register the NDC instead of proceeding through the appellate process.
The caucus further questioned the timing of the ruling, noting that it came on the same day INEC was expected to open its portal and issue access codes for political parties to upload candidates for the 2027 elections.
“It is not coincidental. It is calculated, deliberate and despicable,” the statement said, adding that the development was politically motivated rather than driven by the law.
The lawmakers blamed the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for what they described as an anti-democratic plot to sideline opposition parties before the next general election.
“We ask the APC: What are you afraid of? If you believe in your record, come to the ballot. Why has the courtroom replaced the campaign trail?” the caucus stated.
The NDC lawmakers maintained that Nigeria was not a one-party state and vowed to challenge the ruling through every available legal avenue, including an appeal to the Supreme Court if necessary.
They warned that allowing the court order to stand could trigger a major political crisis and erode public confidence in both the judiciary and INEC.
The caucus also urged members and supporters of the party across the country to remain calm, law-abiding and resolute while the legal process continues.
“The NDC was born in struggle. No court order can kill that resolve,” the statement concluded.