Court Strikes Out Joinder Bid, Adjourns ADC, Accord Deregistration Suit to April 17

A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has struck out an application for joinder filed by Senator Clever Ikisikpo of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), in a move seen as clearing procedural hurdles in the ongoing suit challenging the deregistration of political parties.

The decision followed the formal withdrawal of the application after counsel to the plaintiff informed the court that the applicant is not a registered member of the National Forum of Former Legislators (NFFL), a key party in the case.

In a related development, the court granted an application by the Accord Party seeking leave to file a further counter affidavit, allowing it to strengthen its position in the matter.

The court also heard an application by the NFFL for an amendment of its originating summons but deferred ruling on the request.

Justice adjourned proceedings to April 17, 2026, for rulings on pending applications and further hearing.

The suit is seeking a judicial interpretation of Section 225A of the Fourth Alteration Act (2017) of the Nigerian Constitution. The plaintiffs are urging the court to compel the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to apply the provisions of the law uniformly in the deregistration of political parties.