Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has condemned a Federal High Court judgment ordering the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and other political parties, warning that such decisions further weaken public confidence in Nigeria’s judiciary and democratic institutions.
In a statement posted on his X account on Monday, Obi described the development as part of a wider “systematic collapse of institutions,” arguing that inconsistent judicial outcomes were deepening distrust in the rule of law and discouraging both citizens and investors.
He recalled earlier concerns he had raised about the handling of institutional matters in Nigeria, stressing that the credibility of the justice system is central to national stability and economic growth.
“When the controversy surrounding the removal of former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Walter Onnoghen, unfolded, I expressed a concern to a friend: that the greatest damage might not be immediate, but the message it sends about the sanctity and independence of our institutions to the world,” he wrote.
Obi said strong economies are built on trust in institutions, warning that uncertainty in the judiciary poses a greater threat than conventional economic risks.
“Strong economies are built on trust. Investors can manage security risks, policy risks, and even market risks. What they fear most is uncertainty in the rule of law and a judiciary that is perceived to be vulnerable to political pressure,” he stated.
He lamented that many Nigerians and businesses are increasingly turning to foreign jurisdictions for contract enforcement due to declining confidence in local systems.
“Today, many Nigerians have lost confidence in systems that should protect them. Businesses increasingly request that their contracts be governed by foreign jurisdictions because they have greater confidence in those institutions than in our own. That should concern every patriot,” Obi said.
Specifically addressing the court ruling on political parties, Obi insisted that such actions risk deepening public skepticism about the justice system.
“The Federal High Court judgment ordering the deregistration of the ADC and other political parties is just one of those activities that further reduces the common man’s trust in our legal systems; it should be reversed,” he declared.
He reiterated his commitment to rebuilding institutional integrity, especially within the judiciary, insisting that justice must remain impartial and accessible.
“I pledge that we will restore the dignity, independence, and integrity of the Judiciary. The common man must have a voice. The business community must be protected from legal uncertainty and intimidation. Justice must be impartial, accessible, and respected by all,” he added.
Obi concluded with a call to legal professionals to take a stand in defence of the rule of law.
“To our judges, legal luminaries, senior advocates, and lawyers: this is your moment. Rise, defend the rule of law, take back your country!”
He signed off with his familiar slogan: “A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO”
