The Court of Appeal has delivered a landmark ruling that nullified the Federal High Court’s decision to de-register Accord and four other political parties, a move the party hailed as a major victory for democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria. The appellate court’s judgment, delivered in Abuja, overturned the earlier ruling by Justice Peter Lifu, which had ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the parties. Accord described the Federal High Court’s decision as a “frivolous, spurious and defective suit” aimed at undermining democratic participation, particularly targeting Osun State Governor Senator Ademola Adeleke’s eligibility to contest the August 15 gubernatorial election.
In a statement signed by Barr. Maxwell Mgbudem, the National Chairman of Accord, the party welcomed the Court of Appeal’s verdict as a restoration of sanity in Nigeria’s electoral process. The party emphasized that the judgment reaffirms public confidence in the judiciary as the ultimate protector of justice and citizens’ rights. “The Court of Appeal ruling is indeed a sweet music in the ears of all lovers of representative governance in Nigeria,” Mgbudem stated, adding that it sends a powerful message to anti-democratic forces that they will be defeated when citizens stand up for their democratic rights.
Accord further clarified that it had met all legal requirements for party registration and had successfully contested elections, with results duly presented in court. The party dismissed the suit brought by “so-called former legislators” as baseless, arguing that the group lacked the legal standing, or locu standi, to initiate such proceedings. The party believes the case was a deliberate attempt to distract and prevent Senator Adeleke from participating in the upcoming Osun gubernatorial election.
The appellate court’s decision has been celebrated as a triumph for participatory democracy and due process. Accord expressed appreciation to Nigerians who, despite political differences, condemned the “judicial recklessness” of the lower court. The party sees its growing national acceptance as a threat to “unpatriotic elements,” especially in Osun State, which remains its stronghold. With the legal obstacles now removed, Accord is confident it will emerge victorious in the upcoming election.
This ruling underscores the judiciary’s critical role in safeguarding democratic institutions and ensuring fair electoral processes. As Nigeria prepares for more elections, the outcome sets a precedent for how political challenges must be addressed through lawful and transparent means. The Accord party’s resilience and the judiciary’s intervention signal a renewed commitment to democratic governance in the country.
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