The Inter-Party Advisory Council on Tuesday hailed the Court of Appeal for setting aside the judgment of the Federal High Court that ordered the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress and four other political parties, describing the verdict as a courageous reaffirmation of constitutional democracy and the rule of law.
The umbrella body of all registered political parties in Nigeria also renewed its call on the National Judicial Council to investigate judicial officers whose judgments are inconsistent with the provisions of the Constitution, saying such decisions have the potential to trigger constitutional crises and undermine public confidence in the judiciary.
IPAC’s reaction came hours after the ADC also demanded disciplinary action against Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court, Abuja, following the appellate court’s decision nullifying his judgment that directed the Independent National Electoral Commission to deregister five political parties.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, IPAC National Publicity Secretary, Egbeola Martins, said the appellate court’s verdict restored confidence in the judiciary and reinforced constitutional guarantees of political participation and freedom of association.
