A civil society coalition has asked the Federal High Court in Abuja to urgently determine the lawsuit challenging the continued registration of some political parties in the country.
In a statement, the Coalition of Civil Society Groups for Peace, Security, Good Governance, Equity and Justice described the case as one of the most critical constitutional issues facing Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 polls. The group said the suit touches on key matters of constitutional authority, electoral responsibility, and the duties of public institutions under the 1999 Constitution.
The coalition also praised the Attorney General of the Federation for what it called a principled stand on constitutional matters. In a statement, it said the AGF had shown commitment to upholding constitutional duties rather than yielding to political interests.
“The Attorney General of the Federation deserves commendation for acknowledging that constitutional duties cannot be set aside for political sentiments or partisan pressure. The Constitution remains the supreme law,” the group said.
The organisation condemned what it termed attempts by certain political actors to politicize the case through unfounded accusations against the Attorney General. It singled out remarks reportedly made by Zenith Labour Party National Chairman Dan Nwanyanwu, who alleged that the AGF “cooked up” the suit.
“Making damaging claims without evidence simply because you disagree with a public official’s constitutional stance is irresponsible,” the coalition stated.
The group stressed that Section 225A was intentionally included in the Constitution to promote electoral discipline and prevent the unchecked multiplication of inactive parties with no real electoral presence. In a statement, it noted that keeping a large number of dormant parties on the register drives up the cost of managing elections and creates unnecessary complications for democratic administration.
While supporting the value of political pluralism, the coalition argued that constitutional rules must be applied consistently and fairly.
“The question before the court is straightforward. Should adherence to the Constitution be swayed by emotional arguments or applied strictly as the law demands? That is the constitutional issue now awaiting the court’s clarification,” the group said.
It called on the judiciary to handle the matter impartially, firmly, and strictly in line with constitutional provisions.
The statement was issued by James Okoronkwo, Executive Director of the Coalition of Civil Society Groups for Peace, Security, Good Governance, Equity and Justice, in Abuja, Nigeria.
