By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
Ex-Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has condemned the recent judgment of the Federal High Court in Abuja ordering the deregistration of five political parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Accord Party.
Justice Peter Odo Lifu of the Federal High Court reportedly directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to immediately deregister the affected parties over alleged constitutional breaches in a ruling delivered on Monday, June 15. 
Reacting to the judgment, Obi described the decision as another troubling development that could further erode public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions and the judiciary.
In a statement released on Monday, the former Anambra State governor argued that the court’s decision should be reversed, warning that weakening institutions for political purposes could have far-reaching consequences for the country.
According to Obi, the controversy surrounding the removal of former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Walter Onnoghen, had earlier raised concerns about the independence and sanctity of Nigeria’s institutions.
He noted that while investors can manage security and policy risks, uncertainty in the rule of law and perceptions of judicial vulnerability to political influence remain major deterrents to investment.
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 presidential candidate lamented that many Nigerians have lost faith in institutions meant to protect them, adding that businesses increasingly prefer contracts governed by foreign jurisdictions due to greater confidence in their legal systems
Obi further argued that the judgment ordering the deregistration of the ADC and other political parties would further diminish public trust in the nation’s legal system.
“The Federal High Court judgment 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 said.
He pledged to work towards restoring the dignity, independence, and integrity of the judiciary, emphasizing the need for a justice system that is impartial, accessible, and respected by all.
“The common man must have a voice. The business community must be protected from legal uncertainty and intimidation. Justice must be impartial, accessible, and respected by all,” Obi added.
He also called on judges, senior advocates, legal luminaries, and lawyers across the country to defend the rule of law and safeguard Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
“To our judges, legal luminaries, senior advocates, and lawyers: this is your moment. Rise, defend the rule of law, take back your country,” he urged.
Obi concluded his statement with his popular refrain: “A New Nigeria is Possible.”
The ruling has continued to generate debate among legal and political stakeholders, with many awaiting further reactions from the affected parties and the electoral commission.
