CNPP Condemns Court Ruling Ordering Deregistration of Five Political Parties

The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) has condemned a recent court judgment directing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister five political parties, warning that the decision could undermine Nigeria’s democracy and the credibility of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement signed by its Deputy National Publicity Secretary, James Ezema, the CNPP expressed concern over the ruling by Justice Peter Lifu affecting the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Accord Party, Action Alliance (AA), Action Peoples Party (APP) and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).

The umbrella body of political parties described the judgment as more than a legal dispute, saying it represents a direct threat to Nigeria’s constitutional democracy, multiparty system and citizens’ right to political participation.

According to the CNPP, the deregistration of political parties could narrow the democratic space and limit the choices available to voters.

The group also questioned the reported involvement of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, alleging that his support for the suit had raised concerns about the neutrality of key democratic institutions.

The CNPP argued that the development had strengthened public perceptions that opposition parties were being targeted and that political institutions might be under pressure to serve partisan interests ahead of the 2027 general elections.

It warned that actions perceived as undermining political pluralism could erode public confidence in the electoral process and democratic institutions.

The organisation urged relevant authorities to uphold the principles of fairness, inclusiveness and the rule of law in the management of political affairs.

The statement further stressed the need to protect Nigeria’s multiparty democracy, noting that the existence of diverse political platforms is essential for healthy democratic competition and national development.

The court ruling has continued to generate reactions from political stakeholders, with concerns being raised over its implications for the country’s democratic landscape ahead of the next general elections.