By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the Federal High Court’s decision to void the registration of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). He made the remarks after the court in Lokoja, Kogi State, set aside its December 10, 2025 judgment directing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register the party. Atiku described the ruling as part of an alleged attempt by President Bola Tinubu’s administration to weaken opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general election.
Atiku Alleges Threat to Multi-Party Democracy
In a statement issued by the Atiku Media Office, the former Vice President said the judgment did not surprise him. He claimed the development reflects a broader plan to weaken the opposition and create a de facto one-party state.
According to him, democracy thrives on citizens’ ability to choose freely during elections. Therefore, he warned that denying Nigerians that right could lead to chaos and political instability.
“Nigerians are now seeing the true colours of President Tinubu, who pretends to be a democrat, but his body language and the sinister activities of his agents contradict his stated commitment to free and fair elections,” Atiku said.
Calls on Tinubu to Respect Democratic Values
Atiku urged President Tinubu to allow political competition without interference. He argued that any leader confident in public support should not fear credible elections.
“If you’re truly popular and your policies have improved the lives of Nigerians, you should not be afraid of free and fair competition,” he stated.
He also urged Tinubu to emulate former President Muhammadu Buhari, noting that Buhari never deregistered opposition parties despite serving as both a military ruler and a democratically elected president.
Atiku further praised former President Goodluck Jonathan for maintaining that no political ambition should cost the life of any Nigerian.
Former Vice President Warns Judiciary Against Political Influence
The former presidential candidate appealed to judges to protect the independence of the judiciary. He warned them against becoming tools in the hands of politicians.
“There are great judges in Nigeria, but the unchecked excesses of some who allow themselves to become judicial swords in the hands of politicians are capable of damaging the larger image of the judiciary,” he said.
Atiku stressed that governments are temporary, but the judiciary must preserve its integrity as the last hope of ordinary Nigerians.
“Do not allow unscrupulous politicians to stain your reputation for short-term gain. Let us avoid anything capable of ruining the credibility and reputation of our courts,” he added.
Atiku Says Court Ruling Could Undermine 2027 Elections
Atiku also warned that suppressing opposition parties could undermine the credibility of the 2027 general election.
“You cannot attempt to rule the people against their will and still pretend that you are committed to free and fair elections in 2027,” he stated.
He insisted that Nigeria’s democracy depends on political pluralism and equal opportunities for all registered parties.
Court Explains Decision
Justice Isah Dashen of the Federal High Court in Lokoja ruled that the Peace Movement Party should have been joined in the suit because the outcome directly affected its interests. Based on that finding, the court set aside its earlier judgment directing INEC to register the NDC.
