The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has rejected a Federal High Court judgment ordering its deregistration, describing the ruling as a threat to democracy and political stability.

In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party said the judgment represented the strongest indication yet of what it alleged were efforts by the ruling party to weaken opposition forces ahead of the 2027 general election.

The ADC maintained that only the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has the constitutional authority to register or deregister political parties, vowing to challenge the ruling through all available legal channels.

“The African Democratic Congress (ADC) wishes to warn, in the strongest possible terms, against any attempt to use the judiciary as an instrument to undermine democracy and plunge Nigeria into a major political crisis,” the statement said.

The party expressed concern over the judgment reportedly delivered by Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court, Abuja, in a suit filed by the National Forum of Former Legislators seeking the deregistration of the ADC and four other political parties.

According to the party, INEC had stated in a counter-affidavit filed in May that the ADC had not breached any registration requirements and that there was no constitutional basis for its deregistration.

The opposition party further alleged that the court proceeded with the matter despite a subsisting Court of Appeal order issued on May 22, 2026, directing a stay of proceedings.

Describing the development as a dangerous escalation, the ADC warned that it could undermine Nigeria’s democratic process. The party also alleged that individuals linked to the ruling party were involved in the case.

It questioned the timing of the judgment, noting that it came after the party had concluded its primaries and selected candidates for the 2027 elections.

The ADC, however, urged its members to remain calm while it pursues legal remedies.

Meanwhile, the party announced former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, as the running mate to its presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, for the 2027 presidential election.

According to the ADC, the decision followed extensive consultations with party leaders, coalition partners, youth and women stakeholders, as well as representatives from all geopolitical zones.

“The National Leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), after extensive consultations with party leaders, coalition partners, youth and women stakeholders, and representatives of all geopolitical zones, is proud to announce that Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi has been selected as the vice-presidential candidate of our great party for the 2027 presidential election,” the statement said.

The party said Amaechi emerged runner-up in its presidential primaries and enjoyed widespread support across the country.

It described the Atiku-Amaechi ticket as a partnership between two experienced political leaders with the capacity to address Nigeria’s economic, security and governance challenges.

Highlighting Amaechi’s political record, the ADC noted that he had served as Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, two-term Governor of Rivers State, and Minister of Transportation. It added that his experience in both the legislative and executive arms of government would strengthen the party’s ability to govern effectively.

The party also said Amaechi’s political influence in the South-South and across Southern Nigeria, combined with his coalition-building credentials, would complement Atiku’s candidacy and expand the party’s national reach.

“Together, Atiku Abubakar and Rotimi Amaechi embody a truly national ticket one that bridges regions, generations and political traditions,” the party said.

The ADC added that the ticket offers Nigerians what it described as a credible alternative focused on economic recovery, job creation, national unity and security, while calling on party members, coalition partners, civil society groups, youth organisations, women leaders and other Nigerians to support its campaign ahead of the 2027 elections.