National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, speaks on the implications of a court ruling ordering INEC to deregister five political parties.
The Obidient Movement has criticised a Federal High Court ruling directing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister five political parties, warning that the decision could narrow political participation and weaken Nigeria’s democracy.
The ruling, delivered by Justice Peter Lifu in Abuja, ordered INEC to remove the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Accord Party, Action Peoples Party (APP), Action Alliance (AA), and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) from the register of political parties over their alleged failure to meet constitutional electoral performance requirements.
The case was filed by the National Forum of Former Legislators, which asked the court to determine whether INEC is constitutionally obligated to deregister political parties that fail to secure specified electoral benchmarks.
Reacting to the judgment, the Obidient Movement said reducing the number of political platforms available to citizens could undermine democratic choice and limit opportunities for political engagement.
In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, the movement expressed concern that the ruling may restrict the diversity of voices and alternatives needed for a healthy democratic system.
The group argued that democracy thrives when citizens have access to multiple platforms through which they can contest elections, express political preferences and hold leaders accountable.
According to the movement, Nigeria’s democratic growth depends on inclusiveness, fairness and robust political competition rather than restrictions that could discourage participation.
The organisation, which aligns with the political philosophy of Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, maintained that strengthening democratic institutions should take precedence over reducing political representation.
The movement also urged Nigerians to remain actively involved in the democratic process by obtaining their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and participating in elections.
It stressed that meaningful political change can only be achieved when citizens engage consistently in governance and electoral processes.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to voter mobilisation, civic engagement and accountability, describing democratic participation as essential to building a more inclusive and responsive political system.
As debate continues over the court’s ruling, the development has reignited broader conversations about political inclusion, electoral reforms and the future of multiparty democracy in Nigeria.
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