Federal High Court Reverses NDC Registration Order as Henry Seriake Dickson Vows Legal Fight

Federal High Court Ruling on NDC Sparks Outrage as Senator Henry Seriake Dickson Vows Legal Battle

By MyInfoJet News

Federal High Court Reverses Earlier Judgment Ordering INEC to Register NDC

The National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, has strongly criticized the Federal High Court sitting in Lokoja after it overturned its earlier judgment directing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register the party.

The latest ruling, delivered by Honourable Justice Isah Dashen, set aside the court's December 2025 judgment that had ordered INEC to recognize the NDC as a political party.

The decision followed an application filed by the unregistered Peace Movement Party (PMP), which claimed an interest in the logo adopted by the NDC.

Justice Dashen ruled that the previous judgment was constitutionally flawed because all parties with potential interests were not joined in the original suit. The court subsequently ordered a fresh hearing involving INEC, the PMP, and the NDC while restoring the status quo pending the new proceedings.

Senator Dickson Rejects Court Decision

Reacting to the ruling, Senator Dickson described the judgment as legally unsound and politically motivated.

According to him, the ruling is designed to undermine the credibility of the NDC and restrict Nigeria's democratic space.

«"The order lacks legal merit and is intended to affect the foundational credibility and efforts of our party. It is illegal and will not stand. It is against multi-party democracy and aimed at narrowing and stifling the democratic space."»

NDC Begins Legal Challenge

Dickson confirmed that the party's legal team has already commenced steps to challenge the judgment and restore the earlier order compelling INEC to register the NDC.

He appealed to party members, supporters, and candidates nationwide to remain calm and continue their political activities without fear.

According to him, the development represents only the first major challenge facing the party.

«"This is only the first test of our commitment and resilience. Even this shall pass, and the NDC and all our candidates shall cruise to victory."»

Dickson Questions PMP's Legal Standing

The former governor also questioned the legal standing of the Peace Movement Party, arguing that it is not a registered political party and therefore has no exclusive rights to any political logo.

He maintained that the association was never among the 171 political associations that applied for registration with INEC in 2025 and was also absent from the 21 associations reportedly shortlisted for registration.

Dickson insisted that the PMP was not a necessary party in the original suit.

"We Will Not Be Intimidated"

The senator stated that the NDC anticipated political resistance due to the party's rapid growth over the past five months.

He alleged that opponents were uncomfortable with the increasing popularity of the NDC and were attempting to slow its momentum through legal challenges.

«"We will not allow this to slow us down or break our spirit. The struggle must continue."»

He further vowed to challenge what he described as a judicial error through all available legal channels.

Thousands Join NDC Amid Court Controversy

Despite the legal setback, Dickson claimed that the party witnessed a surge in membership immediately after the court ruling.

According to him, thousands of Nigerians registered as members of the NDC in solidarity with the party.

He thanked supporters across the country for their continued confidence and reaffirmed the party's commitment to strengthening Nigeria's multi-party democracy.

Quoting one of his favourite sayings, Dickson concluded:

«"First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they attack you, then you win."»

He added that although the party is currently facing challenges, victory remains inevitable.

Why This Case Matters

The outcome of the legal battle could have significant implications for political party registration in Nigeria and may shape future interpretations of electoral laws, party registration procedures, and democratic participation ahead of future elections.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why did the Federal High Court reverse its earlier judgment?

The court ruled that the earlier decision was defective because not all parties with an interest in the matter were joined in the original suit.

Why is the Peace Movement Party involved?

The Peace Movement Party claimed an interest in the logo adopted by the NDC and sought to be included in the case.

What is Senator Dickson's response?

He rejected the ruling, described it as unlawful, and announced that the NDC has begun legal proceedings to overturn the decision.

Has the NDC been registered by INEC?

No. The latest court ruling suspended the earlier order directing INEC to register the party pending a fresh hearing.

What happens next?

The case will return to court for a new hearing involving INEC, the Peace Movement Party, and the Nigeria Democratic Congress.

Source: MyInfoJet News

Senator Henry Seriake Dickson has condemned a Federal High Court ruling reversing an earlier order directing INEC to register the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). Here's everything you need to know.

Henry Seriake Dickson, NDC, INEC, Federal High Court, Nigeria Democratic Congress, Justice Isah Dashen, political party registration, Nigerian politics, Lokoja court ruling