Former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Uche Secondus, has raised alarm over the recent judgment of the Federal High Court ordering the deregistration of several political parties, cautioning that the move could undermine Nigeria’s multi-party system.
On Monday, Justice Peter Lifu directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Action Peoples Party, Action Alliance, Accord Party, and Zenith Labour Party, ruling that they failed to meet constitutional requirements for continued registration.
Reacting in a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday, Secondus described the ruling as a dangerous precedent that could narrow political participation and weaken democratic competition.
“This is not just a setback for the affected parties but a dangerous assault on the foundational principles of multi-party democracy, citizen participation, and the rule of law,” he said.
Secondus argued that smaller and emerging parties are vital for broadening political participation and offering citizens alternative platforms. He accused the government of attempting to weaken opposition voices, saying: “They are afraid of the election; they want a coronation.”
He further stressed that constitutional provisions on deregistration were designed to be applied after elections, not midway through the political cycle. According to him, deregistering parties at this stage disenfranchises voters, destabilises the system, and shrinks the democratic space.
“It’s judicial rascality to endorse political exclusion by dissolving parties midway through a cycle. This disruption chills the competitive spirit necessary for a healthy democracy,” he added.
The Court of Appeal in Abuja has since ordered a stay of execution of the judgment, pending the determination of appeals filed by the affected parties.
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