Court order on deregistration of political parties sparks pushback in Taraba

The governorship candidates of the Accord Party, Professor Jerome Nyameh and the African Democratic Congress, ADC, Alhaji Abubakar Tutare, in Taraba state, have dismissed concerns over a Federal High Court ruling ordering the deregistration of both parties alongside three others by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

The development follows a judgment delivered on Monday in Abuja by Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court which directed the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to deregister the affected political parties over alleged non compliance with statutory requirements.

However, both candidates insisted that the ruling does not mark the end of their parties’ legal existence, stressing that higher judicial authorities still have the final say.

Reacting to the judgment, Accord Party governorship candidate, Professor Nyameh described the ruling as a first instance decision, arguing that it remains subject to appeal.

He maintained that the legal process is not concluded, noting that both the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court remain available for review.

“The Federal High Court is just a trial court. There is the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court,” Nyameh said.

While urging party supporters to remain calm and law-abiding, he  expressed confidence in the continued political relevance of the Accord Party, insisting that it remains a viable platform for Nigerians.

Nyameh also referenced internal party strength, noting that the party has prominent political figures, including the sitting governor of Osun state, Ademola Adeleke, adding that preparations for future political activities within the party remain ongoing.

On his part, ADC governorship candidate, Alhaji Abubakar Tutare also rejected concerns that the court’s ruling would lead to the party’s collapse.

Tutare argued that the African Democratic Congress remains politically relevant, pointing to its representation in the House of Representatives as evidence of its continued legal and electoral standing.

He urged supporters not to panic, expressing confidence that the party would ultimately prevail if the matter progresses to the Supreme Court.

“We are not worried. We believe the Supreme Court will do justice in the end,” he said.

For now, both campaigns in Taraba State have urged supporters to remain focused on their political activities pending further legal clarification.