A protest has broken out at the Federal High Court as demonstrators gathered over a suit seeking the deregistration of some political parties.
The case before the court is asking the Independent National Electoral Commission to deregister parties including the African Democratic Congress, Accord Party, Zenith Labour Party and Action Alliance.
The suit was filed by a group identified as the National Forum of Former Legislators, which is urging the court to enforce constitutional provisions guiding the registration and continued existence of opposition political parties.
However, some group have gathered on monday to protest this development.
During the protest, demonstrators expressed concern over the implications of the case, warning that deregistering opposition parties could limit political participation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
One protester said:
“We are here to defend democracy and ensure opposition parties are not silenced.”
Another added:
“The court must remain independent in deciding this matter.”
The court had earlier acknowledged the public interest in the case and adjourned proceedings for further hearing.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official statement from the Presidency or court authorities directly addressing the protest.