SDP Presidential Candidate Faults ADC, Accord Deregistration — Offers Free Legal Help

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) presidential candidate has strongly condemned the Independent National Electoral Commission's (INEC) move to deregister the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Accord Party, describing the action as a dangerous threat to Nigeria's multi-party democracy.

The presidential hopeful, who voiced his displeasure in a statement, faulted the rationale behind the deregistration, insisting that the move undermines the spirit of inclusiveness and political pluralism enshrined in the nation's constitution.

He further announced his readiness to offer free legal assistance to the affected parties, vowing to stand by them in their bid to challenge the electoral umpire's decision in court.

"The deregistration of ADC, Accord, and other political parties is a direct assault on our democracy. It is an attempt to silence opposition voices and reduce the political space to a few dominant parties," the SDP candidate stated.

"Democracy thrives on choice. When you take away the right of citizens to choose from a wide range of political platforms, you are gradually killing the very foundation of democratic governance."

The presidential candidate argued that smaller parties play a crucial role in keeping the larger parties in check, and that wiping them off the political map would only entrench the dominance of the ruling class while disenfranchising millions of Nigerians.

He maintained that INEC, as an unbiased umpire, should focus on strengthening the electoral process and creating a level playing field for all parties, rather than reducing the number of political platforms available to voters.

"We will not fold our arms and watch this injustice happen. I am offering my legal team and resources to support ADC, Accord, and any other affected party that wishes to challenge this decision. Together, we will fight to protect our democracy," he assured.

The SDP flagbearer called on civil society organisations, pro-democracy groups, and well-meaning Nigerians to rise in defence of the affected parties, warning that the deregistration sets a dangerous precedent that could affect any party in the future.

He also urged INEC to reverse its decision and engage in dialogue with the affected parties, stressing that the strength of any democracy lies in its diversity of voices and opinions.

The development has continued to generate mixed reactions across the country, with some Nigerians supporting the deregistration on the grounds that many of the parties are inactive and only spring to life during elections, while others have condemned it as an attempt to shrink the democratic space.

Several political analysts have weighed in on the matter, noting that the legal battle ahead could shape the future of Nigeria's multi-party system and define the limits of INEC's regulatory powers.

The affected parties are expected to respond formally to the deregistration in the coming days, with indications that they may approach the courts to seek redress.