The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has described as disturbing, recent Federal High Court judgment directing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and four other political parties for allegedly failing to meet constitutional electoral performance requirements.
Reacting the judgment, delivered by Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja, ordering INEC to deregister of the affected parties on the grounds that they failed to secure at least 25 per cent of votes in the last general elections.
In a statement issued by its Executive Director, Dr. Zikirullahi M. Ibrahim, CHRICED acknowledged the constitutional role of the judiciary in interpreting the law but cautioned against decisions that could have far-reaching consequences for Nigeria’s democratic development.
The organisation argued that the deregistration of political parties should not be treated merely as an administrative or legal matter, stressing that such decisions must take into account broader democratic principles, including international commitments under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and relevant United Nations conventions that protect political participation and freedom of association.
According to CHRICED, democracy extends beyond the conduct of elections and requires the protection of citizens’ rights to organise politically, associate freely and choose from a wide range of political alternatives.
The group warned that the removal of political parties, particularly ahead of another electoral cycle, could contribute to a shrinking democratic space and reduce political choices available to Nigerians.
It further expressed concern that limiting the number of parties could weaken political competition, reduce inclusiveness and undermine public confidence in democratic institutions.
CHRICED also questioned whether electoral laws and standards relating to party deregistration have been applied consistently over the years, noting that public trust depends not only on legal compliance but also on perceptions of fairness and impartiality.
The organisation said the timing of the judgment was likely to generate public concern, particularly as some of the affected parties have recently become more active within the opposition political landscape.
Calling for restraint, CHRICED urged authorities to ensure that all affected parties are allowed to exhaust available legal remedies, including the appeals process, in line with constitutional provisions and democratic norms.
The group also appealed to INEC, the judiciary, political parties and other stakeholders to prioritise the long-term health of Nigeria’s democracy by promoting reforms that expand political participation and strengthen public confidence in democratic institutions.
“As Nigeria moves closer to another electoral cycle, democratic institutions must act in ways that promote trust, encourage political competition and safeguard citizens’ ability to make meaningful choices at the ballot box,” the statement said.
CHRICED maintained that a healthy democracy thrives on political pluralism, civic freedoms and equal opportunities for all political actors, warning that any measures perceived as limiting these principles could undermine democratic participation and inclusion.
The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to the protection of democratic values, insisting that democracy is strongest when citizens are offered genuine political alternatives and when civic space remains open and protected.
