NDC lawmakers cry judicial coup over party deregistration

The Nigeria Democratic Congress Caucus in the House of Representatives has condemned a Federal High Court ruling that nullified the party's registration, calling it a 'judicial coup' and a deliberate attempt to weaken opposition ahead of the 2027 elections. This is a serious matter that should concern every Nigerian who values democracy.

The caucus leader, Afam Ogene, accused the APC of orchestrating this through the courts instead of electoral competition. The ruling came from Lokoja, Kogi State, and effectively withdraws the legal basis for the NDC's recognition by INEC. The party can no longer sponsor candidates unless it wins an appeal or starts the registration process from scratch.

What is particularly troubling is the timing — this judgment came on the same day INEC was to open its portal for the 2027 election preparations. The NDC lawmakers argue that the 90-day statutory window to challenge registration had expired, and they accuse the litigants of forum shopping. How many more opposition parties will be targeted before the next election?