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“YOU ARE PLAYING WITH FIRE”, ADC WARNS GOVERNMENT AGENTS SEEKING PARTY DE-REGISTRATION – JUSTICE PETER LIFU IS A THREAT TO DEMOCRACY, SAYS PARTY

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The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has rejected a Federal High Court judgment concerning its de-registration, describing the ruling as a threat to democracy and political stability, and warns of the dire consequences that may follow any effort to remove the party from the ballot.

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party argued that the curious judgment is yet the clearest evidence of the desperation of the ruling party and the government to ensure that President Tinubu holds on to power by any means necessary, even if it means subverting democracy and throwing the country into a crisis of immense proportions.

The party emphasised that the Constitution grants only INEC the power to register or de-register a political party. However, this judgment has flagrantly contradicted INEC’s position on affidavit and ignored a subsisting order of stay of proceedings of the Court of Appeal. The ADC therefore vowed to challenge the ruling through all lawful means, while urging its members to remain calm and await further directives.

The full statement read:

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) wishes to warn, in the strongest possible terms, against any attempt to use the judiciary as an instrument to undermine democracy and plunge Nigeria into a major political crisis.

We are deeply alarmed by the judgment reportedly delivered by Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court, Abuja, in a case filed by the so-called National Forum of Former Legislators seeking the de-registration of the ADC and four other political parties. This judgment stands in direct conflict with constitutional principles and all known judicial processes and procedures.

The facts are straightforward. The plaintiffs had argued that the ADC and four other political parties failed to satisfy constitutional requirements relating to continued registration. However, in its counter-affidavit filed before the court in May, INEC, the constitutional body empowered with the registration, regulation, and supervision of political parties in Nigeria, categorically maintained that the ADC had not violated any registration requirements, had not failed any constitutional electoral-performance threshold, and that no legally recognised basis existed for its de-registration.

INEC further made it clear that the de-registration of a political party cannot be driven by political pressure, sentiment, or the wishes of interested parties. It must be based strictly on constitutionally established grounds, none of which had been proven against the ADC.

Apart from INEC’s firm position in support of the party, the ADC finds it troubling that the trial judge was aware of a subsisting order of the Court of Appeal issued on May 22, 2026, directing a stay of proceedings on the matter. The judge, however, chose to flagrantly and contemptuously disregard a clear order of a superior court in a manner that brings into question all known judicial traditions.

The ADC considers this development not merely a legal dispute, but a dangerous escalation capable of destabilising the nation’s democratic process. Our position is anchored on the role that agents of the ruling party have played in this matter. It would be recalled that the case has been championed directly by individuals working with the President’s Chief of Staff. The decision of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, who is a second defendant in the matter, to join the matter as a plaintiff in April, is an absurdity, which sends a signal that is impossible to ignore.

We are therefore left in no doubt that this latest development is a continuation of the ruling party’s persistent efforts to undermine the opposition, especially the ADC. We also find the timing of this ruling quite curious. Despite all the obstacles placed in its way, the ADC has risen to the task and met all benchmarks and deadlines. Therefore, coming at a time when the party has concluded its primaries and is fielding candidates for all positions in the next election, especially the presidential election, it is clear what this is all about.

However, the ADC would like to warn that any attempt to eliminate the country’s major opposition party through judicial manoeuvring, thereby sabotaging the political aspirations of hundreds of its candidates, is a direct invitation to anarchy.

This is why we consider this ruling reckless, provocative, and even incendiary. Those who believe they can manipulate institutions of state to narrow the democratic space must understand that they are playing with forces far greater than partisan interests.

At a time when millions of Nigerians are struggling under crushing economic hardship, escalating insecurity, widespread unemployment, and growing national anxiety inflicted by the APC, it is deeply disturbing that powerful forces appear more interested in eliminating political opposition than confronting the real crises facing the country.

From our standpoint, the issue before the country is no longer simply about party registration. It is about whether the Nigerian people will be allowed genuine political choices in 2027. It is about whether democracy will remain a contest decided by voters at the ballot box or by powerful interests operating through institutions that ought to remain impartial.

Let it be clearly stated: the ADC will not stand by while the democratic rights of millions of Nigerians are threatened. We reject any and all attempts to intimidate, suppress, deregister, or politically extinguish our party and other opposition parties through means that offend both the spirit and the letter of the Constitution.

Nigeria is a nation of law, not a nation governed by the whims and caprices of agents of the ruling party. Therefore, as a law-abiding political party, the ADC will vigorously challenge this judgment through every lawful and constitutional avenue available to us. We shall mobilise all democratic stakeholders. We shall defend the rights of all our candidates, members, supporters, and the millions of Nigerians who are looking to the ADC as a credible alternative for national renewal.

Make no mistake, this is another act of desperation by the ruling party and the government to hand President Tinubu a second term without contest. This will not work. We therefore warn those who are seeking to manufacture a civilian dictatorship to understand that democracy cannot be strangled without consequences for national stability.

The responsibility for any tension or crisis arising from efforts to weaponise the judiciary against legitimate political opposition will rest squarely with those who are pursuing this dangerous and illegitimate path.

Meanwhile, the ADC will petition the National Judicial Council (NJC) over the judicial rascality demonstrated by the presiding judge of the Federal High Court, whose conduct has continued to bring the institution of the judiciary into disrepute.

We call on all our members, candidates, supporters, and coalition partners across the country to remain calm, vigilant, and steadfast. Whatever it takes, the ADC will be on the ballot so long as the 2027 election is to hold.

Further directives will be communicated through the appropriate channels.

Signed:

Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi
National Publicity Secretary
African Democratic Congress (ADC)

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OZIOMA RALLIES ADC OSISIOMA LEADERS FOR 2027, TASKS WARD EXECUTIVES ON GRASSROOTS MOBILISATION

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Barr. Kelechi Ozioma Onyeobia, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for the Obingwa, Osisioma and Ugwunagbo Federal Constituency, has called for stronger party unity, strategic planning and intensified grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

On Wednesday, October 21, 2026, Onyeobia held an interactive meeting with the ADC Osisioma 5-Arms Local Government and Ward Executives in Osisioma Ngwa, Abia State, to assess the party’s progress, review mobilisation strategies and identify areas requiring improvement.

Speaking at the meeting, the ADC Chairman in Osisioma Ngwa, Hon. Obioma Ogbonna, commended the candidates for their commitment to the party’s growth and pledged continued support, urging leaders and stakeholders to sustain cooperation.

Other party leaders, including Hon. Emeka Ahukanna, ADC LGA Secretary; Hon. Michael Onyekwere, Ward 1 Chairman; and Hon. Chibuzor Akokwu, Ward 6 Chairman, highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen the party through ward level engagement and grassroots mobilisation.

Similarly, Hon. Dan Onwutuebe, Osisioma Ngwa Coordinator of the Atiku Abubakar/Rotimi Amaechi Campaign Organisation, expressed confidence in Onyeobia’s candidacy and urged members to work collectively towards electoral victory in 2027.

The Deputy Director General and Osisioma Coordinator of the Ozioma Movement, Hon. Obinna Otuonye, also encouraged members to spread the OZIOMA message across communities, assuring them of an inclusive movement guided by the popular Igbo expression, “Onye ruo ma, ya eri ma”, emphasising the principle that everyone should have a role in collective progress.

Addressing the executives, Barr. Onyeobia urged them to remain united, proactive and committed to delivering victory for all ADC candidates. He stressed the need for consistent community engagement, wider dissemination of the party’s message and stronger collaboration among leaders and stakeholders.

He reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with party structures to build a stronger, more inclusive and electorally competitive ADC across the federal constituency.

The meeting underscored the importance of grassroots participation, effective leadership and party unity as the ADC intensifies preparations for the 2027 general elections.

 

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UBANI SAN CHARGES NBA ORON ON ACCOUNTABILITY, SECURITY AND PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE AS BAR CENTRE PROJECT TAKES OFF

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Senior Advocate says proposed NBA Oron House must promote mentorship, unity, institutional integrity and access to justice.

Dr. Monday Ubani, SAN, has called for a secure, dignified and professionally supportive environment for legal practitioners, stressing that the independence and safety of lawyers remain fundamental to the protection of the rule of law and the effective administration of justice in Nigeria.

Ubani made the call while delivering the keynote address as Chairman of the Occasion at the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Oron Branch, Law Week, held under the theme, “Legal Administration and Legal Practice in a Secured Environment.” The event featured the foundation-laying ceremony for the proposed NBA Oron House, Bar Centre, marking a significant step towards strengthening the branch’s institutional capacity and professional development.

The senior lawyer explained that security in legal practice extends beyond physical protection to include freedom from threats, intimidation and unlawful interference, as well as the protection of confidential information, digital security and institutional safeguards.

He maintained that lawyers must be able to perform their professional duties without fear of retaliation, particularly when challenging unlawful conduct or representing clients whose interests may conflict with those of powerful individuals or institutions.

Describing the proposed NBA Oron House as more than a physical structure, Ubani said the Centre should become a lasting professional home where lawyers can exchange ideas, access continuing legal education, receive mentorship and collaborate on legal aid and public-interest initiatives.

He urged the branch to ensure that the facility is adequately equipped with functional meeting rooms, legal research resources, private consultation spaces, administrative offices, reliable utilities and appropriate security arrangements. He also emphasised accessibility for persons with disabilities and the need for a sustainable maintenance plan.

Accountability, Transparency Essential to Project’s Success

 

Ubani stressed that the success of the Bar Centre would depend not only on the quality of its construction but also on the transparency, integrity and accountability of those responsible for its execution.

He called for proper documentation of financial contributions and expenditure, regular progress reports, professional procurement and construction standards, and a realistic completion and management plan.

He warned against allowing the facility to become the personal property of any administration or faction, insisting that it must remain an enduring institutional asset accessible to lawyers across generations and professional backgrounds.

Drawing on his experience in NBA leadership, including his service as Chairman of NBA Ikeja Branch, Second Vice-President of the Association and Chairman of NBA-SPIDEL, Ubani urged members to prioritise the collective interests of the legal profession above personal differences, electoral divisions and individual ambitions.

He observed that leadership tenures would eventually end, but institutions built on sound principles could serve generations to come.

Young Lawyers, Professional Development in Focus

The senior advocate also called for greater investment in young lawyers, noting that the proposed Centre should provide opportunities for mentorship, practical training, professional development and continuing legal education.

He identified the financial demands of establishing legal practice, technological changes, professional competition and the responsibility of maintaining ethical standards amid economic challenges as some of the difficulties confronting young practitioners.

According to him, a well-managed Bar Centre could help address these challenges, strengthen professional fellowship and prepare younger lawyers for greater responsibilities in the administration of justice.

Ubani further encouraged the NBA Oron Branch to use the facility as a platform for public service through legal awareness campaigns, pro bono services and constructive engagement on human rights, criminal justice reform, electoral integrity, constitutional governance and access to justice.

He emphasised that the credibility of the legal profession should not be measured solely by the respect lawyers command in courtrooms, but also by the confidence ordinary citizens repose in them.

Calls for Support Without Compromising Bar Independence

Ubani appealed to members of the Bench, government, traditional institutions, corporate organisations, business leaders, philanthropic individuals and other friends of the legal profession to support the project.

He, however, cautioned that partnerships and external support must not compromise the independence of the Bar or undermine its professional responsibilities.

Commending the leadership and members of NBA Oron Branch for initiating the project, he urged them to sustain the commitment and collective effort that had made the foundation-laying ceremony possible.

He said the true value of the completed Centre would not be determined merely by the beauty of its structure, but by the quality of lawyers it develops, the lives it touches and its contribution to justice and the rule of law.

Ubani expressed the hope that NBA Oron House would become a lasting symbol of professional excellence, institutional progress and service to humanity, built on the enduring foundations of unity, integrity, transparency and accountability.

Dignitaries Grace NBA Oron Law Week

The annual event attracted prominent members of the judiciary and the legal profession, including the Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, Hon. Justice Ekaette F. Obot, who was represented by Hon. Justice Effiong Offiong of the State High Court.

The Attorney-General of Akwa Ibom State, Uko Udom, SAN, was also represented by a director in the State Ministry of Justice. Several judges, magistrates and Bar leaders from Eket, Uyo and Ikot Ekpene attended the occasion.

The NBA Oron Branch is chaired by Ikara O. Ikara, Esq., while Chief Godwin Effiong serves as Chairman of the Annual Law Week Planning Committee.

The highlight of the event was the foundation-laying ceremony for the proposed NBA Oron House, led by Hon. Justice Effiong Offiong on behalf of the Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Ekaette F. Obot.

The ceremony was widely regarded as an important milestone in the branch’s drive to establish a permanent institutional facility that will strengthen professional interaction, support the development of lawyers and promote access to justice.

With the project now underway, the call by Ubani underscores the importance of ensuring that NBA Oron House becomes not merely a landmark building, but a centre of professional growth, ethical leadership, institutional accountability and public service.

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OZIOMA 2027: ONYEOBIA STRENGTHENS GRASSROOTS SUPPORT IN OBINGWA, ENGAGES NDA MEMBERS

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ADC Federal Constituency Candidate Reaffirms Commitment to Dialogue, Unity and Effective Representation

Barr. Kelechi Ozioma Onyeobia, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for the Obingwa/Osisioma/Ugwunagbo Federal Constituency, has continued to strengthen his grassroots engagement ahead of the 2027 general elections, holding consultations with members of the New Development Alliance (NDA) in Mgboko, Umuanunu Ward 3, Obingwa Local Government Area of Abia State.

The consultation, which took place on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, provided an opportunity for the ADC candidate and members of the group to exchange ideas, discuss their expectations, and explore a shared vision for the future development of the constituency.

Barr. Onyeobia and his entourage received a warm and enthusiastic welcome from members of the NDA, who expressed their appreciation for the engagement and their interest in his political vision under the Ozioma 2027 project.

In their separate remarks, the group’s leader, the ADC Ward 3 Chairman, the Women Leader, and the Youth Leader commended Barr. Onyeobia for what they described as his commitment, sincerity, integrity, and clear vision for development and effective representation.

They expressed confidence in his leadership capacity and highlighted their expectations for a future defined by purposeful representation, improved opportunities, and greater attention to the needs and aspirations of the people.

Responding, Barr. Onyeobia thanked the members for their warm reception, patience, and willingness to engage with him and his team. He emphasized the importance of sustained dialogue, mutual understanding, collaboration, and grassroots participation in building a stronger constituency where the voices and interests of the people remain central to leadership decisions.

He reaffirmed the value of engaging directly with community members, noting that meaningful representation requires listening to the people, understanding their concerns, and working collectively towards a common developmental vision.

Also speaking, Hon. Chief Uche Okezie urged members of the group to remain committed to the Ozioma 2027 project and take its message of purposeful leadership and effective representation to their communities, churches, families, friends, and other social networks.

Hon. Okezie described Barr. Onyeobia as a man of integrity and sincerity whose commitment to the people’s interests, in his view, makes him worthy of their confidence. He also highlighted his longstanding relationship with the group’s leader, expressing optimism that their continued partnership, unity, and collective efforts would contribute to achieving their shared aspiration for a more progressive and effectively represented federal constituency.

The meeting further underscored the importance of grassroots consultations in strengthening relationships, building trust, and creating opportunities for citizens to participate in conversations about their political future.

As the 2027 elections approach, the Ozioma 2027 project continues to pursue grassroots engagement across the constituency, with an emphasis on unity, dialogue, and a shared commitment to better representation.

For Barr. Kelechi Ozioma Onyeobia and his supporters, the message remains clear, meaningful leadership begins with listening to the people, building trust, and working together towards a better future for Obingwa/Osisioma/Ugwunagbo Federal Constituency.

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