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The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has expressed concern over a Federal High Court judgment nullifying the emergence of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) National Chairman and actions taken by him.
Obi said the ruling had introduced uncertainty into Nigeria’s political environment at a time when preparations for the 2027 general elections were expected to gather momentum.
The former Anambra State governor made his position known in a statement published on his X account on Thursday, calling on Nigerians and the judiciary to safeguard democratic institutions and protect the rights of opposition parties.
Although he acknowledged the authority of the courts to settle disputes in accordance with the law, Obi questioned the timing of the judgment, particularly with the next general election approaching.
“I do not challenge the ruling of the court. The court of law is constituted to determine disputes according to the law. My concern is that three months before a general election, it is in the public interest to have certainty,” he said.
He warned that unresolved questions surrounding political parties and their candidates shortly before an election could disrupt the electoral process and limit opportunities for opposition parties to campaign effectively.
Obi also alleged that the ruling party was encouraging instability within opposition platforms, claiming that he had experienced similar challenges during his time in the Labour Party.
He further raised concerns about alleged violence against opposition campaigns, describing such developments as part of attempts to restrict civic participation and weaken political competition.
The NDC presidential candidate maintained that the electorate should have the final say in determining who governs the country.
“One mark of democracy is that at all times, it is voters and not courts that choose leaders. I trust in the judiciary. As a public officer, I have shown deep respect for the judiciary,” he said.
Obi appealed to the judiciary and other stakeholders to ensure that democratic institutions remained protected and that political candidates could participate in elections without undue restrictions.
He also warned that weakening opposition parties could threaten Nigeria’s democratic development, pointing to the spread of military rule in parts of West Africa as a reason to strengthen democratic institutions.
According to him, opposition parties must be allowed to organise, campaign and compete without persecution if democracy is to remain sustainable.
Obi said he had consistently advocated a political system in which opposition parties could operate independently and remain viable.
He added that, if elected president, his administration would prioritise the protection of opposition parties and prevent their candidates from being excluded from electoral contests.
“This is a time to strengthen our democracy by allowing the opposition to thrive,” he said.
He concluded by expressing confidence in the possibility of building a new Nigeria.
