Obidient Movement faults court verdict on ADC, others, warns against shrinking political space
The Obidient Movement has criticised the Federal High Court judgment ordering the deregistration of five political parties, warning that the decision could weaken democratic competition and restrict citizens’ political choices.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the movement expressed concern over the ruling directing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remove the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Accord Party, Action Alliance (AA), Action Peoples Party (APP) and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) from the list of registered political parties.
The judgment was delivered on Monday by Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja following a suit filed by the National Forum of Former Legislators.
The plaintiffs had asked the court to compel INEC to enforce constitutional provisions requiring political parties to meet specific electoral performance benchmarks.
Reacting to the development, the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, said the ruling raises serious concerns about the future of political pluralism in Nigeria.
Tanko noted that democracy flourishes when citizens have access to multiple political platforms through which they can participate in governance and express their preferences.
“Our concern is that the shrinking of the political space through the deregistration of parties could limit democratic participation and reduce the options available to Nigerians,” he said.
The movement described itself as a people-driven platform committed to promoting good governance and democratic reforms, adding that its ideals are closely aligned with those of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
According to the statement, Obi has consistently advocated a political culture rooted in accountability, competence and citizen engagement rather than financial influence.
“We align strongly with the ideas and principles of His Excellency, Mr Peter Obi, who has consistently demonstrated a different approach to politics by challenging the dominance of a money-driven political system,” the statement read.
The group further argued that strong democracies are sustained by inclusiveness and healthy political competition, stressing that the existence of multiple parties provides opportunities for broader representation and alternative viewpoints.
“A vibrant democracy thrives on inclusiveness, political participation and the availability of diverse platforms through which citizens can freely express their aspirations and choices,” the movement stated.
It added that Nigeria’s democratic growth should be anchored on credible institutions, fairness and the active involvement of citizens rather than measures that may be perceived as narrowing the political landscape.
The Obidient Movement also used the opportunity to encourage Nigerians to remain actively involved in the democratic process, particularly through voter registration and participation in elections.
Reaffirming its commitment to civic engagement and voter mobilisation, the group urged eligible citizens to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and exercise their right to vote.
“Your PVC is more than a card; it is your voice, your power and your responsibility. Every election is an opportunity to shape the future we desire,” the statement added.
