The Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), the political party of presidential candidate Peter Obi and his running mate Rabiu Kwankwaso, faces a major legal setback after a Federal High Court in Lokoja, Kogi State, set aside its earlier judgment that had directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register the party. The ruling, delivered on Friday by Justice Isah Dashen, effectively halts the NDC’s recognition as a legal political entity, casting doubt on Obi and Kwankwaso’s ability to contest the 2027 presidential election under their current platform. The decision came following an application by the Peace Movement Party (PMP), which argued that it was not properly included in the original suit and therefore should have been heard before any final decision was made.
Justice Dashen emphasized that all relevant parties must be given the opportunity to present their cases before a court can deliver a binding judgment. He declared that the December 2025 judgment, which had previously ordered INEC to register the NDC, was legally flawed due to the absence of the PMP in the proceedings. This means the court’s earlier directive is no longer valid, leaving the NDC’s registration status unresolved. The ruling has sparked concern among political observers and party members, especially as the next general election draws closer.
Bashir Ahmad, former presidential media aide and a prominent chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), reacted swiftly to the development. In a post on his official X handle, he warned Obi and Kwankwaso that they now have no legally recognised platform to pursue their political ambitions. He stated, “Sen. Rabiu Kwankwaso and Peter Obi have every reason to be worried. As things stand today, they have no legally recognised platform on which to pursue their political ambitions, as the NDC is not recognised by law.” His remarks highlight the urgency for the NDC to resolve its legal status before the election timeline progresses.
The NDC’s registration has been a contentious issue since its inception, with several legal challenges arising from other political parties seeking to block its recognition. The court’s latest decision adds another layer of complexity to the party’s journey, potentially forcing Obi and Kwankwaso to either seek alternative legal remedies or consider joining another registered party. The outcome may also influence voter confidence and party loyalty, especially among supporters who had pinned their hopes on the NDC as a credible opposition force.
As the legal battle continues, political analysts are watching closely to see how the NDC will respond. The party may appeal the ruling or file a new suit that includes all relevant parties. Meanwhile, INEC has not issued any statement on the matter, leaving the status of the NDC’s registration in limbo. The next few months will be critical for the NDC as it navigates this legal hurdle and works to secure its place in Nigeria’s electoral landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
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