Political storm brews as IPAC challenges trend of Party deregistration

The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) has warned that court decisions leading to the deregistration of political parties could threaten Nigeria’s multi-party democracy.

Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday, IPAC’s National Publicity Secretary, Martins Egbeola, expressed concern over recent court rulings affecting some political parties, including the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

According to him, the judgments could reduce political diversity in the country and limit citizens’ rights to freely associate and participate in politics.

Egbeola said earlier court rulings that deregistered five political parties, along with the recent decision involving the NDC, could shrink Nigeria’s democratic space if the trend continues.

He explained that even if the legal decisions were valid, their combined impact could weaken the multi-party system that has existed in Nigeria since the return to democratic rule in 1999.

Egbeola also alleged that there may be attempts by certain interests to influence state institutions for political gain, warning that such actions could harm democracy.

He called on the National Judicial Council (NJC) to ensure judges remain independent, impartial, and committed to upholding the Constitution. According to him, the judiciary must continue to enjoy public trust and should never be seen as serving political interests.

The IPAC spokesman stressed that Nigeria’s strength lies in allowing different political parties and ideologies to coexist within a democratic system.

He warned against any effort to create a one-party state through judicial or institutional means, insisting that Nigerians remain committed to democratic values.

“Multi-party democracy is here to stay in Nigeria. No political strategy can stop the democratic aspirations of Nigerians,” he said.

Egbeola further reminded politicians that political power is temporary and that history would judge actions capable of weakening democratic institutions and constitutional freedoms.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Democratic Congress has challenged the court ruling affecting its status.

The party maintains that it remains a legally registered political organisation and intends to participate fully in activities leading to the 2027 general elections.