By Our Correspondent

National News – Nigeria’s electoral umpire, the Independent National Electoral Commission, has opposed a legal move seeking the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress, stating that the application fails to meet constitutional requirements.

The development, which emerged on May 5, 2026, follows court filings reviewed by journalists, where INEC clearly argued that no valid legal grounds exist to justify dissolving the opposition party.

According to the commission, the attempt to deregister the ADC does not satisfy the conditions outlined in Nigerian law.

INEC explained that deregistration can only occur under specific circumstances, such as failure to meet electoral performance benchmarks or violations of registration guidelines.

In this case, the commission stressed that none of these criteria have been proven against the party.

The electoral body further clarified that its authority to deregister political parties is not discretionary.

It insisted that such decisions must strictly follow constitutional provisions, free from political pressure or external influence.

This position, analysts say, significantly weakens the case against the ADC and could influence the court’s final ruling.

Reacting to the controversy, Phrank Shaibu, an aide to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, described the move as politically motivated.

He argued that the attempt reflects a broader strategy to suppress opposition voices and limit political competition in Nigeria.

Shaibu also noted that INEC’s stance reinforces public concerns that the case lacks legal merit.

Observers believe the situation highlights ongoing tensions within Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly ahead of future elections.

They warn that attempts to sideline opposition parties through legal means could undermine democratic principles and reduce voter confidence in the system.

As the matter remains before the court, no official response has been issued by the ADC.

However, the outcome of the case is expected to shape discussions around political party regulation and electoral fairness in Nigeria.