Hundreds of protesters gathered on Monday at the Federal High Court in Abuja to oppose moves linked to the deregistration of some opposition parties, raising concerns about the role of the Federal Government, the judiciary and the electoral body in the process.
The protest took place at the court premises in Wuse, where members of a group known as Concerned Northern Nigeria Stakeholders marched and displayed placards while chanting as they called for fairness in the political system. The demonstration followed rising tension over a court case seeking the removal of some political parties from the electoral register.
Security operatives, including officers of the Department of State Services, were deployed to the area and blocked access to the court complex, preventing the protesters from entering the premises. The situation remained under control as the demonstrators stayed outside while addressing the press.
Leaders of the group said their action was driven by fears that recent developments could weaken opposition politics and affect democratic balance in the country. They raised concerns about possible interference in the judiciary and warned against actions that could affect the independence of key institutions.
The protesters also pointed to the role of the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, calling for neutrality in handling legal matters involving political parties. They expressed worry that any move seen as favouring one side could affect public trust in the justice system.
The demonstration came at a time when a case before the Federal High Court is seeking to compel the Independent National Electoral Commission to remove several political parties from its register.
The legal action, backed by the Attorney General, argues that some parties no longer meet constitutional and legal requirements to remain registered.
Among the parties listed in the case are the African Democratic Congress, Action Peoples Party, Action Alliance, Accord Party and Zenith Labour Party. The argument presented in court filings is that keeping such parties on the register may go against provisions of the law guiding political organisations in Nigeria.
The protesters warned that removing opposition parties without careful legal consideration could affect political participation and create tension across the country. They said the existence of multiple parties allows for competition and gives citizens more options during elections.
They also cautioned that public confidence in the judiciary could drop if court decisions are seen as favouring political interests. According to them, such a situation could push political disagreements outside legal channels and increase unrest.
The protest added to the growing political tension ahead of the 2027 elections, as parties, politicians and institutions continue to reposition themselves. With the court yet to decide on the matter, attention remains on how the case will shape the political space in the coming months.