The Federal High Court in Abuja has directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register a new political party, the Citizens Democratic Alliance (CDA), and immediately issue its certificate of registration.
The judgment was delivered on Tuesday, June 23, by Justice Obiora Egwuatu, following a legal challenge filed against INEC by the party’s promoters.
The suit was instituted by Tamunotonye Samuel Solomon Inioribo and two other applicants after INEC allegedly declined to register the political association in December 2025 despite its compliance with the requirements for registration.
According to court documents, the association had secured initial approval from INEC, submitted all necessary documentation, and successfully passed security and background checks conducted on its national leadership and operational offices before its registration was rejected.
Dissatisfied with the commission’s decision, the founders approached the court, arguing that they had fulfilled all constitutional and legal requirements necessary for registration as a political party.
In his ruling, Justice Egwuatu agreed with the applicants and held that the association had met the conditions stipulated by law. He subsequently ordered INEC to register the Citizens Democratic Alliance (CDA) without further delay and issue the party its certificate of registration.
The ruling is expected to increase the number of political parties participating in Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The CDA has described itself as a progressive political movement committed to promoting democratic reforms, economic revitalization, good governance, and accountability in public office.
Nigeria currently has 22 registered political parties, all of which have submitted their membership registers to INEC in preparation for the 2027 general elections.
Political observers believe the court’s decision could further expand political participation and provide voters with additional options as preparations for the next election cycle gather momentum.
FaceToFace TV Political Desk reporting.
