NDC legal team reviews court ruling on party registration, Obi's aide

Peter Obi's media aide, Idris Zekeri Jnr, said on Friday that the NDC's legal team is looking into the Federal High Court ruling that canceled the order for the Independent National Electoral Commission to register the NDC as a political party.

In a statement from Abuja, Zekeri asked supporters to stay calm. He said the party is reviewing the judgment and will seek legal options.

Zekeri mentioned that the party has received many questions about what he called the “bizarre” ruling from the Federal High Court in Lokoja, Kogi State.

“We have received the news of today’s bizarre ruling from the court in Lokoja regarding the legal status of the Nigeria Democratic Congress.

“While our legal teams are thoroughly reviewing the judgment to initiate immediate corrective and appellate measures, our Principal urges all our supporters, coalition partners, and patriots nationwide to remain absolutely calm and focused,” he said.

He noted that the party expected pushback in its fight against the country’s political system. He called the ruling a temporary setback instead of a final blow to their political goals.

“Today’s ruling is a hurdle, not a stop sign. Our commitment to providing a transparent, legitimate, and formidable alternative for Nigerians remains unshakeable. The platform we are building is robust, and our legal rights will be vigorously pursued. Do not be discouraged; the vehicle may face a temporary breakdown, but our destination remains non-negotiable.”

This statement came after Justice Isah Dashen of the Federal High Court in Lokoja ruled on Friday. The ruling set aside the court’s December 10, 2025 judgment that ordered INEC to register the NDC.

The judge stated that the earlier judgment affected the rights of the Peace Movement Party. This party claimed ownership of the logo used to obtain the registration order but was not included as a party in the case.

The applicant's lawyer, C.S. Ekeocha, said the court told all parties to go back to their positions before the December 10, 2025 judgment. The court also directed that all necessary parties be added before the main case is heard again.

He added that the ruling canceled actions taken by INEC based on the earlier judgment. This includes recognizing the NDC, issuing its registration certificate, adding it to the commission’s records, and any appearance on ballot papers. This will remain until the main case is decided.