The NDC presidential candidate says the Lokoja Federal High Court judgment weakens democratic institutions as the party begins reviewing legal options.
Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has criticised the judgment of the Federal High Court in Lokoja, Kogi State, which set aside the earlier order directing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register the party, describing the decision as another setback for Nigeria’s democracy.
Obi said he received news of the judgment while attending engagements in Imo State, including a visit to Madonna University after touring the School of Nursing Sciences in Emekuku and participating in the 80th birthday celebration of the Emeritus Archbishop of Owerri, Most Rev. Dr. Anthony Obinna.
According to Obi, the ruling represents an unnecessary setback for democratic institutions and underscores the need to preserve the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral and judicial processes. He maintained that democracy thrives when institutions remain strong and independent.
Reacting separately, Obi’s media aide, Idris Zekeri Jnr, said the party’s legal team was studying the judgment and would immediately pursue corrective and appellate measures. He urged supporters, coalition partners and members of the public to remain calm while the legal process continues.
The Federal High Court had earlier vacated its previous judgment compelling INEC to register the NDC after ruling that the Peace Movement Party (PMP), which claimed ownership of the logo relied upon in the registration process, was not joined in the original suit. The decision effectively nullified actions taken pursuant to the earlier judgment.
As of Friday, the NDC had begun reviewing the court’s decision and indicated that it would challenge the ruling through the appropriate legal channels.