The Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) has confirmed that it has filed a notice of appeal challenging the Federal High Court judgment that nullified its registration, maintaining that the party remains a legally recognised political platform while legal proceedings continue.
Speaking with DIP CONNECT ONLINE NEWS on Monday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, disclosed that the appeal was successfully filed at the Court of Appeal in Lokoja, Kogi State, and that the party would soon serve the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) with the necessary court documents.
According to him, the party’s legal team completed the filing process on Monday.
“Yes, we successfully filed the appeal today. We will serve INEC very soon. Our legal team was in Lokoja, Kogi State, today,” he said.
Director dismissed reports suggesting that the party had been deregistered, insisting that there was no reason for panic among members, supporters or candidates.
“We are not in panic mode. Our candidates have no reason to fear. The NDC remains a registered political party, and this is still reflected on INEC’s portal,” he stated.
He also criticised media reports surrounding the court ruling, arguing that the legal dispute focused on the party’s logo rather than its legal existence.
“The narrative being circulated is inaccurate. The case only challenged the use of our logo and not the existence of the party. That does not amount to deregistration.
“We appreciate our members, supporters and Nigerians for their understanding and continued solidarity,” he added.
The appeal comes after several emergency meetings involving the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi; his running mate, Dr. Rabiu Kwankwaso; NDC National Leader, Seriake Dickson; members of the National Working Committee; and other key stakeholders to map out the party’s legal response.
A senior party official had earlier informed DIP CONNECT ONLINE NEWS that the leadership held marathon strategy sessions over the weekend to finalise its legal approach before filing the appeal.
The legal action follows a Federal High Court judgment in Lokoja that set aside an earlier ruling directing INEC to register the NDC. Although the party acknowledged the decision as a legal setback, it insisted it would challenge the ruling through the appellate court.
The NDC has continued to reassure its members, candidates and supporters that the judgment does not amount to deregistration and maintains that it remains a legally recognised political party pending the outcome of the appeal.
ADEOLA KUNLE
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