ABUJA, NIGERIA — Umar Ardo has declared that the registration of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) will be nullified, expressing strong confidence that ongoing legal action against the party’s recognition will succeed in court.
Ardo, who serves as convener of the League of Northern Democrats, made the assertion while addressing concerns surrounding what he described as irregularities in the process that led to the party’s registration by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
He confirmed that his group has already initiated legal proceedings challenging the legitimacy of the NDC’s registration, insisting that the judiciary will ultimately overturn the decision.
According to Ardo, the dispute centres on claims that the Nigeria Democratic Congress failed to meet key constitutional and administrative requirements necessary for recognition as a political party.
He further alleged that the party’s approval was granted largely on the basis of a court order rather than through the standard verification procedures typically enforced by the electoral commission.
Ardo argued that such a process undermines due process and could create a controversial precedent for future political party registrations across the country.
The legal challenge is expected to test the boundaries between judicial authority and the regulatory responsibilities of electoral institutions, particularly in determining how political parties gain official recognition in Nigeria.
Meanwhile, Rabiu Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano State, has publicly backed the NDC, offering a contrasting perspective on the party’s legitimacy and political relevance.
Kwankwaso explained that his support for the party is driven by a commitment to democratic principles and the need to promote good governance within Nigeria’s political system.
He described the NDC as a platform capable of advancing political reform and strengthening accountability, especially at a time when many citizens are seeking credible alternatives within the political space.
The former governor also urged his supporters and other Nigerians to consider joining the party, positioning it as a viable option for those interested in expanding democratic participation.
The opposing positions of Ardo and Kwankwaso highlight a widening divide over the emergence of new political parties and their role in Nigeria’s evolving democratic landscape.
Political analysts note that disputes over party registration are not uncommon, as legal challenges frequently arise over compliance with electoral guidelines and internal organisational processes.
The outcome of the court case could have far-reaching implications, not only for the NDC’s future but also for other emerging political platforms seeking official recognition ahead of future elections.
As the legal proceedings continue, attention will focus on how the courts interpret existing electoral laws and whether the NDC will retain its registration or face possible deregistration.
