NDC insists it remains legally recognised, appeals court judgment

Senator Seriake Dickson, the national leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has publicly urged the party's candidates—including President Peter Obi, vice-presidential candidate Dr. Rabiu Kwankwaso, and other aspirants—to remain loyal to the party despite a recent legal setback. The call came in response to reports suggesting some members might consider leaving the party following a controversial Federal High Court ruling in Lokoja. The court overturned a previous decision that had directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register the NDC as a political entity. This new ruling has sparked concern among party members, prompting Dickson to reassure them of the NDC’s continued viability and commitment to the upcoming 2027 general elections.

The legal dispute began with a January 2025 ruling by Justice Isah Dashen, where the court initially ordered INEC to register the NDC. However, this decision was later annulled by a subsequent judgment delivered on December 10, 2025, which ruled that the initial order had unfairly impacted the Peace Movement Party, which claimed ownership of the logo used in the registration process. The latest ruling, issued on Friday, further complicated matters by nullifying the December 10 decision, effectively removing the NDC from the electoral framework. This sequence of rulings has left the party in a precarious legal position, with its future participation in the polls hanging in the balance.

Despite these developments, Dickson has remained resolute, emphasizing that the NDC is not only still registered but also fully prepared to contest the 2027 elections. He has pointed out that the party has already completed its internal nomination processes, with all candidates—ranging from gubernatorial hopefuls to senators—validly selected under the supervision of INEC. Dickson stressed that the court’s actions do not negate the legitimacy of these nominations, asserting that the NDC remains a recognized political force. He also noted that the party is currently preparing to file an appeal against the latest ruling, with plans to take the case to the Court of Appeal and potentially the Supreme Court if needed.

In addition to addressing the legal challenges, Dickson has engaged in direct dialogue with key figures within the party, including Kwankwaso, to reinforce unity and shared purpose. During a recent meeting, both leaders reaffirmed their dedication to upholding Nigeria’s multi-party democratic structure. Dickson highlighted that the party’s struggle against the court’s ruling is not merely a legal battle but a broader effort to protect the integrity of the nation’s electoral system. He described the current situation as a test of resilience, noting that the NDC’s continued presence in the political arena has actually led to increased public engagement, with thousands visiting the party’s website to learn more about its platform and candidates.

The NDC’s legal strategy involves challenging the court’s ruling through higher judicial channels, arguing that the decision violates established principles of judicial finality. Dickson expressed confidence in the Nigerian judicial system, acknowledging that while the current ruling is flawed, the appeals process offers a pathway to rectify the issue. He emphasized that the party’s goal is not to discredit the judiciary but to ensure that the law is applied consistently and fairly. This approach reflects a broader pattern of the NDC’s historical stance, which has often prioritized legal avenues over immediate political action.

Looking ahead, the NDC is expected to formally submit its appeal to the Court of Appeal in the coming days, marking a crucial step in its campaign to restore its status as a legitimate political actor. While the outcome of the legal proceedings remains uncertain, the party’s leadership has made it clear that they are determined to see the process through. For now, the focus remains on maintaining internal cohesion and ensuring that all candidates and members feel supported in their commitment to the NDC’s vision for Nigeria.