The presidential candidate of National Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has condemned a reported Federal High Court judgment ordering the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress Action (ADC), Peoples Party (APP), Action Alliance (AA), Accord Party (AP), and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), describing the decision as a development that could further erode public confidence in Nigeria’s judicial system.
In a statement posted on his Facebook page on Monday, Obi said the judgment reflected what he termed the “systematic collapse” of institutions that are critical to the country’s democratic and economic development.
The former Governor of Anambra State argued that strong economies are built on trust in institutions, particularly the judiciary, warning that uncertainty surrounding the rule of law could discourage investment and weaken economic growth.
Drawing parallels with the controversy surrounding the removal of former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Walter Onnoghen, Obi said he had earlier warned that actions perceived to undermine the independence of key institutions could have long-term consequences for Nigeria’s reputation and governance.
According to him, investors are often able to manage security, policy and market risks but are less willing to operate in environments where confidence in the judiciary and the rule of law is uncertain.
He expressed concern that many Nigerians had lost faith in institutions meant to safeguard their rights, adding that some businesses now prefer to have their contracts governed by foreign jurisdictions because of greater confidence in those legal systems.
“That should concern every patriot,” Obi said.
The NDC candidate maintained that the reported court order directing the deregistration of ADC and other political parties would further diminish public trust in the nation’s legal institutions and called for its reversal.
“We must never sacrifice our sacred institutions on the altar of politics. Nations rise when institutions are stronger than individuals,” he stated.
Obi pledged that a future administration under his leadership would work to restore what he described as the dignity, independence and integrity of the judiciary.
He said ordinary citizens must be assured of justice, while businesses should be protected from legal uncertainty and intimidation.
The former Labour Party presidential candidate also called on judges, senior advocates, legal scholars and members of the legal profession to defend the rule of law and safeguard the independence of the judiciary.
“To our judges, legal luminaries, senior advocates and lawyers: this is your moment. Rise, defend the rule of law, take back your country,” he said.
Obi reiterated his call for institutional reforms, insisting that strengthening democratic institutions remains essential to achieving national development and restoring public confidence in governance.