2027: No judicial manipulation, political intimidation can stop us – Kwankwasiyya

The Kwankwasiyya Movement has declared that the recent court judgment affecting the registration of the Nigeria Democratic Congress will not weaken its resolve to pursue victory in the 2027 general election. The movement made its position known on Tuesday in a statement issued by its spokesperson, Dr. Muhammad Sale Habibu, following the court decision that set aside an earlier judgment directing the registration of the party.

The group said it remained committed to supporting a government built on justice, accountability, competence and equal opportunities for Nigerians. It added that while it respects the role of the judiciary in resolving legal disputes, the latest judgment has created concerns about the country’s democratic process and the future of opposition politics.

According to the movement, the timing of the ruling has raised questions because it came as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had already begun activities leading to the 2027 elections, including the nomination and submission of candidates. It argued that many Nigerians could view the development as an attempt to make it more difficult for opposition parties to compete ahead of the next general election.

The statement also pointed to legal arguments already being discussed by lawyers over whether a court that has delivered a final judgment has the authority to reverse its own decision in such circumstances. It maintained that those issues should be settled by the appellate courts to protect public confidence in the judicial system.

Kwankwasiyya warned that repeated legal disputes involving opposition parties could create uncertainty around political participation and reduce public trust in democratic institutions. The movement said democracy can only grow when all political parties have equal opportunities to participate under the law without unnecessary obstacles.

It called on the judiciary to remain independent and ensure that justice is carried out fairly in every case. The movement also urged INEC to continue acting within the law and avoid taking actions that could affect ongoing legal proceedings or create doubts about the electoral process.

The group further appealed to Nigerians, civil society organisations, professional associations and the international community to closely monitor developments surrounding the legal battle involving the NDC. It said protecting democracy requires strong institutions, an independent judiciary and fair political competition.

Despite the court ruling, the movement reaffirmed its support for the NDC as its political platform and insisted that legal challenges, political pressure or administrative actions would not stop its preparations for the 2027 elections.

It expressed confidence that the legal process would eventually produce an outcome based on the rule of law and maintained that its commitment to democratic participation remains unchanged.