NDC Appeals Lokoja Court Judgment, Affirms Party Remains Registered
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has lodged an appeal against the Federal High Court in Lokoja’s recent ruling that ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) not to recognise the party while legal questions about its registration are settled.
Speaking to Vanguard in Abuja on Monday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, said the legal team had already filed a stay of execution in Lokoja and are awaiting the documents’ return to Abuja.
National Secretary Barr. Ikenna Enekweizu explained that the court merely set aside its earlier decision directing INEC to register the NDC; it did not order the party’s dissolution or deregistration.
He stressed that the NDC remains a duly registered political entity and will continue its lawful operations nationwide.
Enekweizu added that no current court order restrains the party’s activities, urging members, supporters and candidates to stay calm and focused.
He noted that the party has instructed its counsel to challenge the judgment at the Court of Appeal, confident that appellate judges will correct what he described as legal errors in the Lokoja ruling.
The national secretary assured NDC candidates that preparations for the 2027 general elections will proceed without interruption.
He also alleged that the timing of the judgment seemed aimed at hindering the party’s election preparations, but reiterated that the NDC will pursue all lawful avenues to safeguard its interests.
Recall that the Federal High Court in Lokoja had previously overturned its December 2025 decision that compelled INEC to register the NDC following a claim by the Peace Movement Party over the use of the party’s logo.
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