The Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja has set aside the Federal High Court judgment in Lokoja that had affected the legal status of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), clearing the way for the party to continue its political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
NDC National Leader Henry Seriake Dickson said the appellate court ruled in favour of the party’s appeal against the decision delivered by Justice Isah Dashen.
He said the judgment restores the NDC’s registration and its ability to participate in elections as a registered political party.
The Lokoja Federal High Court had in June set aside its earlier December 2025 judgment that compelled INEC to recognise and register the NDC. Justice Dashen ruled that the Peace Movement Party, which claimed its rights were affected by the earlier judgment, should have been joined in the case.
Dickson thanked the judiciary, party members and Nigerians who supported the NDC during the legal dispute. He said the party would now focus on its campaigns and preparations for the 2027 elections, while stressing that the NDC’s registration remains valid following the Court of Appeal decision.