Federal High Court Sets Aside Ruling Granting NDC Registration as Political Party
A Federal High Court in Lokoja has annulled its previous decision that directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) as a political party.
Justice Isah Dashen announced on Friday that the earlier ruling infringed upon the rights of the Peace Movement Party (PMP), which was not part of the case despite asserting ownership of the NDC’s logo.
C.S. Ekeocha, legal counsel for the PMP, stated that the party filed the suit after discovering that INEC’s registration of the NDC was based on a logo submitted prior to the case.
He noted, “The court has ordered all parties to revert to their positions before the December 10, 2025 judgment and has instructed the claimants to include all necessary parties to ensure a comprehensive resolution of the issues.”
Ekeocha further explained that the ruling nullifies all actions taken by INEC following the initial judgment.
He emphasized, “The recognition of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, the issuance of its registration certificate, its records with INEC, and any ballot paper appearances related to that judgment must be withdrawn pending the final resolution of the main case.”
He clarified, “The case is still active. The court has only vacated its previous decision and directed the inclusion of interested parties to facilitate a fair hearing before a new ruling.”
