The Federal High Court has scheduled February 24, 2026, to hear a suit seeking the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress and other political parties over alleged constitutional breaches.

The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2637/25, was filed by the Incorporated Trustees of the National Forum of Former Legislators against the Independent National Electoral Commission, the Attorney-General of the Federation, and five political parties ADC, Accord Party, Zenith Labour Party, and Action Alliance.

Counsel for the plaintiff, Yakubu Ruba (SAN), told journalists that the suit seeks judicial interpretation of constitutional and statutory provisions governing the registration and continued recognition of political parties in Nigeria.

Court documents indicate the suit was commenced via originating summons under Section 225(A) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), Section 75(4) of the Electoral Act 2022, and relevant provisions of the Federal High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules 2019.

At issue is whether INEC is constitutionally obliged to deregister parties that fail to meet minimum electoral performance thresholds, such as securing at least 25% of votes in one state during a presidential election, winning a local government area in a governorship election, or clinching at least one seat in elections from councillorship to the National Assembly.

The plaintiffs are seeking declaratory orders affirming that INEC must enforce these benchmarks and compelling the deregistration of parties that allegedly failed to win any ward, legislative seat, or elective office in prior elections. They also seek injunctions restraining INEC from recognising or facilitating any political activities of the affected parties unless they comply fully with constitutional requirements.

In an affidavit deposed by Hon. Igbokwe Nnanna, Chairman of the Board of Trustees and National Coordinator of the NFFL, the group claimed that since registration, the parties have failed to win any elective seat at any level and did not meet the constitutionally required 25% vote threshold in at least one state during presidential elections.

The affidavit also argued that INEC’s continued recognition of these parties is unconstitutional, contrary to the Electoral Act 2022, and could lead to administrative challenges and voter confusion if they participate in the 2027 general elections.

Justice Peter Lifu adjourned the matter to February 24, 2026, for hearing.