A fresh legal challenge has been filed against the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) ahead of the 2027 general elections, with a Federal High Court in Abuja being asked to direct the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to withdraw recognition of the party.
The suit was filed by the protem Director of Organisation of the All Democratic Alliance (ADA), Ahidjo Karlahi, and has been registered as FHC/ABJ/CS/1115/2026 before Justice Mohammed Umar.
The development comes despite recent assurances from the NDC’s founder and national leader, Seriake Dickson, that the party remains legally recognised and united ahead of the next election cycle.
Plaintiff Alleges Registration Violations
In the court filing, Karlahi argued that the NDC failed to comply with constitutional and statutory requirements governing political party registration.
According to him, the party was not listed among the associations prequalified to submit formal applications during the 2025 political party registration exercise.
He further alleged that the NDC neither paid the required administrative fee nor completed Form EC15A through INEC’s designated registration portal.
Karlahi maintained that these claims are matters of public record and not mere allegations.
Demand for INEC Action
The plaintiff is seeking a court declaration that the continued recognition of the NDC by INEC is unlawful.
He also wants the electoral commission to remove the party from its official register of political parties.
Describing the case as a defence of democratic principles, Karlahi stated:
“This suit is instituted solely by me as a citizen to advance constitutionalism, the rule of law and electoral integrity in our democracy.”
Hearing Date Yet to Be Fixed
The Federal High Court has not yet fixed a date for the hearing of the suit.
The case is expected to attract significant political attention, particularly because of its potential implications for the NDC and its participation in the 2027 general elections.
