ADC Youths Drag Judge to NJC, Demand Probe Over Controversial Party Deregistration Ruling

The National Youth Wing of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has petitioned the National Judicial Council (NJC), calling for the immediate removal of Justice Peter Odo Lifu from all matters concerning the party and recommending disciplinary action against the judge over alleged judicial misconduct.

The petition, submitted by the ADC National Youth Leader, Comrade Balarabe Rufai, accuses Justice Lifu of bias in a ruling that reportedly directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the ADC and four other political parties.

Addressing journalists in Abuja on Friday, Rufai described the judgment as a direct threat to Nigeria’s multiparty democratic system, alleging that it was aimed at shrinking the country’s political space and promoting a two-party arrangement.

According to the ADC youth leader, the ruling has raised concerns among party members and supporters who view it as an attempt to undermine political pluralism and restrict citizens’ democratic choices.

“The judgment goes beyond the fate of a single political party. It touches on the broader issue of democratic participation and the constitutional rights of Nigerians to freely associate and support political platforms of their choice,” he said.

The youth wing further alleged that its members encountered resistance from security operatives while attempting to submit the petition at the headquarters of the National Judicial Council in Abuja.

Rufai claimed that access to the premises was initially restricted, a development he said heightened concerns about transparency and accountability in the handling of the matter.

Despite the challenges, the group vowed to continue peaceful demonstrations and advocacy until the NJC investigates the allegations and takes what it described as appropriate corrective measures.

The petition comes amid heightened political interest in the future of the ADC following recent legal disputes over the party’s leadership and status. The controversy has generated debate among political stakeholders, legal practitioners and civil society groups on the role of the judiciary in electoral and party affairs.

As of the time of filing this report, neither the National Judicial Council nor Justice Lifu had publicly responded to the allegations contained in the petition.

The development adds another layer to the ongoing legal and political battles surrounding the ADC, with party supporters insisting that judicial decisions affecting political parties must be guided strictly by constitutional provisions and the principles of fairness, independence and due process.