The Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed February 16, 2026, for the commencement of hearing in a constitutional suit seeking the deregistration of five political parties, including the fast-rising African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Action Alliance (AA), for alleged failure to comply with constitutional performance requirements.
The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2637/2025, was filed by the National Forum of Former Legislators (NFFL) against the ADC, Accord Party, Zenith Labour Party, Action Alliance (AA), and Action Peoples Party (APP). The plaintiffs are asking the court to invoke Section 225(A) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which empowers the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to withdraw recognition from parties that fail to meet prescribed benchmarks on membership, participation in elections, and democratic activity.
In a statement signed by National Coordinator Hon. Raphael Igbokwe, the NFFL argued that the continued existence of “inactive and non-performing” political parties undermines the integrity of Nigeria’s democracy, dilutes the party system, strains electoral administration, confuses voters, and offers little value to democratic competition.
“The continued existence of inactive and non-performing political parties erodes the integrity of Nigeria’s democracy and dilutes the effectiveness of the party system. This action is aimed at enforcing the supremacy of the Constitution and restoring discipline and credibility to our political space,” the group stated.
The Forum insisted the suit is not partisan but rooted in constitutionalism and the rule of law. “This legal action is not politically motivated. It is firmly rooted in the rule of law, constitutional compliance, and the urgent need to sanitise Nigeria’s political environment of parties that exist only in name but fail to meet basic constitutional and statutory obligations,” they stated.
The NFFL further contended that a proliferation of weak parties places unnecessary administrative burdens on INEC and weakens electoral credibility. “A credible democracy requires a disciplined and accountable party system. Political parties must not only be registered but must also demonstrate measurable participation and performance as required by law,” the statement added.
Legal and political observers say the outcome could reshape party regulation in Nigeria, potentially emboldening INEC to enforce stricter compliance and setting a precedent on the interpretation of Section 225(A). A favourable ruling for the plaintiffs may trigger similar actions against other underperforming parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The NFFL reaffirmed its commitment to democratic consolidation, saying: “We remain unwavering in our resolve to uphold the Constitution and promote a credible, accountable and functional multi-party democracy for Nigeria.”
