Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the Federal High Court judgment ordering the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing the ruling as “the height of judicial rascality.”
Atiku, in a statement posted on X by his media aide, Paul Ibe, alleged that the decision was part of an effort to weaken opposition parties and push Nigeria towards a one-party state ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The reaction follows a judgment delivered by Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja, which ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the ADC and four other political parties for allegedly failing to meet constitutional requirements for continued registration.
Atiku argued that the ruling formed part of what he described as a broader attempt to undermine opposition voices before the next general election, alleging political motives behind the court’s decision. He insisted that the development was aimed at strengthening the ruling party’s hold on power.
He further claimed that the judgment was delivered despite a pending appeal and an existing order from the Court of Appeal directing that proceedings at the Federal High Court be put on hold. According to him, the appellate court had instructed Justice Lifu to stay further action pending the determination of the appeal.
Atiku explained that the matter, referenced as Appeal No. CA/ABJ/CV/569/2026 and suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2637/2025, was scheduled for hearing on October 27, 2026, and that the stay of proceedings was issued on May 22, 2026. Meanwhile, the ADC has also rejected the judgment, insisting it will challenge the decision through all available legal channels and maintain its participation in the 2027 general elections despite the court ruling.
Elijah Adeyemi
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