By Our Correspondent

National News – The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has claimed that a Federal High Court ruling in Abuja, delivered on Wednesday, will trigger a mass exodus of politicians from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The judgment voided parts of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) timetable and guidelines for the 2027 general elections, especially provisions limiting timelines for party primaries, candidate substitution, and membership registration.

According to ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi, the judgment validates the party’s earlier objections, arguing that the restrictions were designed to prevent defections from the APC and suppress political freedom.

He said the ruling restores freedom of association and strengthens democratic participation ahead of the 2027 polls.

The court held that political parties retain the right to withdraw and replace candidates up to 90 days before elections, stating that INEC cannot impose earlier deadlines.

INEC had earlier compressed party primaries and submission schedules for presidential, National Assembly, governorship, and state assembly elections slated for February and March 2027.

The ADC further predicted that the ruling could reshape Nigeria’s political landscape, increasing competition and encouraging more opposition movements as preparations intensify toward 2027 elections.

Political analysts say the ruling may intensify party realignments, especially as aspirants weigh legal protections for defections and nomination processes ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle.

It also underscores ongoing tensions between electoral regulations and constitutional rights to political participation, which remain central to Nigeria’s evolving democratic process.

ADC reiterated confidence that the judgment will open up the political space ahead of the elections. Party officials expect further legal interpretations in coming weeks soon.