Former Vice President and Presidential Candidate of the African Democratic Congress ADC, Atiku Abubakar, has condemned in the strongest terms the judgement seeking to deregister the ADC and several other opposition political parties, describing it as a dangerous assault on constitutional democracy and further evidence of a coordinated effort to eliminate political opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement by its spokesperson, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku said the ruling should alarm every Nigerian who believes in democracy, political pluralism, and the rule of law.
He noted that the judgement was particularly troubling because it was delivered in the face of a subsisting order of the Court of Appeal which had expressly stayed further proceedings in the matter pending the determination of an appeal.
“The judgement represents a dangerous escalation of authoritarian tactics and a blatant assault on Nigeria’s democracy.
“What makes the situation even more disturbing is that this judgement was purportedly delivered despite a clear and subsisting order of the Court of Appeal. On May 22, 2026, the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division, granted an application staying further proceedings in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2637/2025 pending the hearing and determination of the appeal before it.
“The implication of that order is not ambiguous. A stay of proceedings means precisely what it says. It freezes every further step in the matter, including the delivery of judgement. Any action taken contrary to that order raises serious questions about respect for the hierarchy of courts and fidelity to the rule of law.
