By SUNTV Global Channel | June 15, 2026
In a landmark ruling that could reshape Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the deregistration of five political parties for failing to meet constitutional requirements for continued recognition.
The affected parties are the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Accord (A), Action Alliance (AA), Action Peoples Party (APP), and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).
Delivering judgment on Monday, Justice Peter Lifu directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to immediately deregister the parties, citing their inability to satisfy constitutional provisions relating to electoral performance.
According to the court, the affected parties failed to secure the minimum electoral threshold required under the law, including obtaining at least 25 percent of votes in the last general elections.
Justice Lifu also dismissed several preliminary objections filed by the political parties and further ordered INEC to prevent them from participating in future elections, including the highly anticipated 2027 general polls.
The case, filed under suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/2637/2026, was brought before the court by the Incorporated Trustees of the National Forum of Former Legislators.
The group argued that the parties failed to meet constitutional standards regarding electoral spread and performance, insisting that their continued recognition was inconsistent with existing legal provisions.
INEC was listed as the first defendant in the suit, while the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) was also joined as a party in the case.
Political observers say the ruling could significantly alter political calculations ahead of the next election cycle, particularly as opposition parties continue to realign and build coalitions in preparation for 2027.
The judgment is expected to trigger legal and political reactions in the coming days as stakeholders assess its implications for Nigeria’s multi-party democracy.
