Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has strongly criticized the recent Federal High Court judgment ordering the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and four other political parties, describing it as another blow to public confidence in Nigeria’s institutions.
In a statement released on Monday, Obi expressed deep concern over what he described as the “systematic collapse” of key national institutions, particularly the judiciary, warning that weakening institutional independence poses grave risks to Nigeria’s democracy and economy.
Drawing parallels with the controversial removal of former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Walter Onnoghen, Obi said he had long feared the damaging message such actions send regarding the sanctity and independence of the nation’s institutions.
According to him, while investors can manage security, policy, and market risks, they are most discouraged by uncertainty in the rule of law and perceptions of political interference in the judiciary.
“Strong economies are built on trust. Investors can manage security risks, policy risks, and even market risks. What they fear most is uncertainty in the rule of law and a judiciary that is perceived to be vulnerable to political pressure,” Obi stated.
The former Anambra governor lamented that many Nigerians have increasingly lost faith in institutions designed to protect them, noting that businesses now often prefer contracts governed by foreign jurisdictions due to greater confidence in those legal systems.
“That should concern every patriot,” he said.
Reacting specifically to the court order directing the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and four other political parties, Obi argued that such decisions further erode public trust in the country’s legal framework.
“The Federal High Court judgement ordering the de-registration of the ADC and other political parties is just one of those activities that further reduces the common man’s trust in our legal systems. It should be reversed,” he declared.
Obi pledged that under his envisioned leadership, the dignity, independence, and integrity of the judiciary would be restored, emphasizing that justice must remain impartial, accessible, and respected by all.
He further called on judges, senior advocates, legal scholars, and practitioners to defend the rule of law and uphold 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!”
The statement comes amid growing public debate over the implications of the court’s decision on Nigeria’s democratic landscape and the future of opposition political parties.
Obi concluded his remarks with his signature message:
“A New Nigeria is POssible.”
Editor’s Note: The Federal High Court ruling on the deregistration of political parties has generated varying reactions across political and legal circles, with supporters viewing it as a legal process and critics warning of its potential impact on democratic pluralism and institutional trust.
