Why INEC yet to decide NDC’s fate

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said it will not take any action on the status of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) until it receives and reviews the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the recent judgment of the Federal High Court in Lokoja directing the withdrawal of the party’s registration.

A source disclosed that the Commission would study the court’s decision before taking an official position.

“We will apply for the Certified True Copy of the judgment and act in accordance with the court’s decision once it is received,” the official said.

The Federal High Court in Lokoja had, in a ruling delivered on Friday, reversed an earlier judgment of December 10, 2025, after finding that not all parties affected by the matter were joined in the suit.

The earlier judgment, which paved the way for the registration of the NDC as a political party, was challenged because it overlooked the interests of the Peace Movement Party (PMP), which claimed ownership of the logo used by the NDC in securing its registration.

Counsel to the PMP, C.S. Ekeocha, said the latest ruling effectively nullified every action taken on the strength of the previous judgment.

According to him, “The recognition of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, the issuance of its certificate of registration, its inclusion in INEC’s records, and any appearance on ballot papers arising from that judgment must be withdrawn pending the final determination of the substantive suit.”

Sources said INEC is currently studying the Certified True Copy of the judgment and will determine its next line of action after completing its review.