The Bauchi State chapter of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has declared that it remains a legally recognised and fully operational political party despite the recent Federal High Court ruling in Lokoja, insisting that the judgment will not derail its preparations for the 2027 general elections.
State Chairman, Alhaji Abdullahi Maigari, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday in Bauchi, revealing that the party has already approached the Court of Appeal to challenge the ruling.
According to Maigari, the appeal was filed on the directive of the NDC National Leader, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, and the National Chairman, Senator Cleopas Moses Zuwoghe, who remain confident that the appellate court will overturn the decision.
He described the judgment as part of the normal judicial process and urged members not to panic, stressing that the ruling did not amount to the deregistration of the party.
Maigari explained that the judgment arose from an application filed by the Peace Movement Party (PMP) and was neither an appeal against the court order directing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register the NDC nor a substantive challenge to the party’s legal status.
“The NDC remains a duly recognised political party. We have met all constitutional and legal requirements since our registration and remain committed to offering Nigerians a credible political alternative,” he said.
The state chairman noted that the party had already established structures across the country, conducted ward, local government, state and national congresses, held its national convention, participated in INEC activities and concluded its primary elections ahead of the 2027 polls.
He called on party members and supporters to remain calm, united and focused, warning them against being distracted by political intimidation or misinformation.
“Our members should remain steadfast. There is no cause for alarm as the legal process is ongoing, and we are confident that justice will prevail,” Maigari stated.
He reaffirmed the NDC’s commitment to deepening democracy and providing purposeful leadership for Nigerians.
Maigari also commended Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, Senator Cleopas Moses Zuwoghe and the party’s Zonal Chairman, Dr. Danlami Arabs, for their steadfast leadership and commitment throughout the legal challenge.
He equally expressed appreciation to the people of Bauchi State for their unwavering support and confidence in the vision and programmes of the NDC.
