Deregistration: NDC uploads Obi’s name to INEC portal, files appeal

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has uploaded the name of its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) nomination portal after filing an appeal and an application for a stay of execution against the Federal High Court judgment that ordered the party’s deregistration.

The development was announced on Monday by the party’s National Leader, Senator Seriake Dickson, who said the legal documents had already been served on INEC as the party continues its fight to retain its status.

Dickson said the appeal and stay of execution application were submitted shortly after the court ruling, while a formal letter was also delivered to the electoral commission requesting that it continue to act in line with the law while the case remains before the courts.

He maintained that the NDC remains a legally recognised political party and insisted that its activities, including the conduct of party primaries, were carried out under the supervision of INEC.

According to him, the party has completed its nomination process across the country and only needed to carry out the administrative task of submitting the names of successful candidates through the commission’s portal. He disclosed that the names of both Peter Obi and himself had already been uploaded, while the vice-presidential candidate’s details would be submitted after the remaining documentation is completed.

Dickson also noted that the party remains within the timetable released by INEC for the 2027 general election. He explained that the deadline for submitting National Assembly candidates is July 11, while governorship and State House of Assembly candidates have until July 17 to complete their nominations.

He urged party members and supporters not to panic over the legal challenge, saying there was enough time to conclude all nomination processes. He added that the party had already begun reconciliation efforts following the completion of its primaries and assured unsuccessful aspirants that they would still have opportunities to contribute to the party through campaign teams, committees and other political structures.

The former Bayelsa State governor said the matter is now before the judiciary, following the filing of the appeal and stay of execution application, and expressed confidence that the legal process would determine the next step in accordance with existing laws. He maintained that the party remains committed to participating fully in the 2027 general election while awaiting the outcome of the court proceedings.