Obi/Kwankwaso: ADA’s Ardo vows to challenge NDC in Court, gives reason

A leading figure in the All Democratic Alliance (ADA), Umar Ardo, has vowed to challenge in Court the registration of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), alleging that due process was not followed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Speaking on Trust TV, Ardo said the planned legal action would not be limited to the NDC but would extend to any political party he believes failed to meet statutory requirements yet secured registration.

The ADA is among 171 political associations that applied for registration ahead of the 2027 general elections, intensifying scrutiny over INEC’s approval process.

ALSO READ: 2027: What informed my decision to join NDC — Peter Obi

INEC had earlier announced that only two associations were cleared as political parties in February 2026.

According to its chairman, Joash Amupitan, the Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA) met all stipulated conditions, while the NDC was registered following a court order.

The commission stated that its decisions were guided by relevant provisions of the Constitution and the Electoral Act, as well as its internal regulations for political parties.

However, Ardo dismissed INEC’s explanation, insisting that the NDC bypassed the standard application and screening process.

“The Nigerian Democratic Congress obtained registration without properly applying. It did not meet the requirements set by law or INEC guidelines. It is clearly irregular, and we will challenge it in Court,” he said.

The development sets the stage for a legal battle that could shape the political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly as prominent figures like Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso align with the NDC.