A Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama has declared the United Kingdom chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) illegal, ruling that diaspora chapters of Nigerian political parties lack legal recognition under the country’s constitution. The decision, delivered by Justice Peter Kekemeke on Wednesday, also invalidated the APC congress held in the UK, ending a long-standing legal debate over the legitimacy of political party activities abroad. The case, instituted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) under suit number CV/187/2025, sought to clarify whether Nigerian political parties can legally establish and operate branches outside the country’s borders.
Justice Kekemeke emphasized that the Nigerian Constitution and existing electoral laws do not provide for the creation or operation of political party chapters beyond Nigeria’s territorial limits. He stated that no political party has the legal authority to set up, maintain, or conduct official party activities outside the country. The judge further noted that while Nigerians living abroad are free to express political opinions, support candidates, or engage in discussions about Nigerian politics, political parties themselves cannot legally form formal structures or hold official meetings overseas.
The court specifically nullified the APC UK congress and all actions arising from it, declaring that any such gathering under the banner of a diaspora chapter is constitutionally invalid. Justice Kekemeke pointed out that the constitution clearly outlines the operational framework for political parties and does not include provisions for overseas chapters. He stressed that political parties are not empowered to organise congresses or other official events for members residing outside Nigeria.
This ruling has significant implications for how Nigerian political parties engage with their diaspora members. While it does not restrict individual Nigerians abroad from participating in political discourse or supporting candidates, it bars parties from formally representing or organising their members overseas. The decision underscores the legal boundaries set by Nigeria’s electoral framework and reinforces INEC’s role in ensuring compliance with constitutional provisions.
The judgment is expected to influence future political strategies involving Nigerians in the diaspora, particularly during election periods. Political parties may now need to rethink how they mobilise support abroad, focusing on informal networks rather than official structures. This landmark ruling sets a precedent for all Nigerian political parties and may prompt further legal challenges or policy reviews regarding diaspora engagement.
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