The Federal High Court, Abuja Division, has scheduled February 16, 2026 for the hearing of a constitutional action seeking the deregistration of five political parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Action Alliance (AA).
The suit, filed by the National Forum of Former Legislators (NFFL), challenges the continued recognition of the ADC, Accord Party, Zenith Labour Party, Action Alliance (AA), and Action Peoples Party (APP) on grounds of alleged non‑compliance with constitutional requirements. The matter is registered as FHC/ABJ/CS/2637/2025.
The NFFL contends that the affected parties have failed to meet the constitutional and electoral performance benchmarks stipulated under Section 225A of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). That provision empowers the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to withdraw recognition from political parties that do not satisfy prescribed thresholds.
According to the forum, the suit seeks a definitive judicial interpretation of Section 225A to reinforce constitutional discipline within Nigeria’s multi‑party system.
In a statement signed by Hon. Raphael Igbokwe, National Coordinator of the NFFL, the forum argued that retaining parties that consistently fall short of constitutional standards undermines democratic accountability and weakens the electoral process.
“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,” the statement noted.
The NFFL emphasized that the action is not politically motivated but is aimed at safeguarding constitutional supremacy and restoring credibility to Nigeria’s political space.
“This legal action 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,” the forum added.
The forum further observed that the proliferation of weak and non‑compliant parties imposes unnecessary burdens on electoral administration, confuses the electorate, and contributes little to genuine democratic competition.
It stressed that a credible democracy requires a disciplined and accountable party system, where registered parties demonstrate measurable participation and performance in line with constitutional and statutory mandates.
Reaffirming its resolve, the NFFL stated: “We remain unwavering in our commitment to uphold the Constitution and to promote a credible, accountable, and functional multi‑party democracy for Nigeria.”
