Obidient Movement Blasts Court Order Targeting Political Parties, Warns of Threat to Democracy

(The Obidient Movement. Photo by Threads)

The Obidient Movement has condemned a Federal High Court order directing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister five political parties, describing the ruling as a threat to political inclusion and democratic participation in Nigeria.

The order, delivered on Monday by Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja, directed INEC to delist the African Democratic Congress, Accord Party, Action Peoples Party, Action Alliance, and Zenith Labour Party over alleged failure to meet constitutional performance thresholds under Section 225A of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and the Electoral Act 2022.

The suit, filed by the National Forum of Former Legislators, had asked the court to determine whether INEC was constitutionally obligated to deregister parties that fail to meet electoral benchmarks, including securing at least 25 per cent of votes in any state during a presidential election or winning at least one elective office.

Reacting in a statement on Tuesday signed by its National Coordinator, Dr Yunusa Tanko, the Obidient Movement expressed concern over the implications of the ruling for Nigeria’s democratic space.

The group described itself as an organic movement driven by the self-sacrifice, commitment, and collective determination of Nigerians who believe a new Nigeria is possible, noting its alignment with the political philosophy of Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Peter Obi, whom it credited with challenging the dominance of money-driven politics.

The movement warned that reducing the number of political platforms available to citizens would undermine democratic choice and participation, arguing that a vibrant democracy depends on inclusiveness, broad political participation, and the existence of diverse platforms through which citizens can freely express their aspirations and choices.

It said it remained concerned specifically about the deregistration of the ADC, AA, ZLP, and APP, stressing that democracy must remain open and competitive to survive.

The group further argued that Nigeria’s democratic future should be built on fairness, credible institutions, and stronger citizen participation rather than restrictions on political actors, reaffirming its commitment to civic engagement, accountability, and voter mobilisation ahead of future elections.

It urged Nigerians not to withdraw from the political process and encouraged citizens to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), describing the PVC as more than just a card, but a tool representing each citizen’s voice, power, and responsibility, with every election offering an opportunity to shape the future they desire.