The New Direction for Nigeria Movement (NEDMO) has strongly condemned the recent court order directing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister five political parties, describing the directive as a dangerous threat to Nigeria’s multi-party democracy and national stability.
In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Prince Adefemi Omoniyi, NEDMO expressed concern that the judicial directive could undermine the gains recorded in Nigeria’s democratic journey by restricting political participation and narrowing the space for diverse political voices.
The group stated that the order “represents a direct assault on democratic pluralism and the suppression of political alternatives,” adding that it could weaken civic engagement, limit voters’ choices, silence minority interests and further erode confidence in democratic institutions.
According to NEDMO, forcing political parties out of the democratic framework could create resentment, deepen political exclusion and fuel public distrust, voter apathy and social tension, particularly at a time when the country is already confronted with serious security and socio-economic challenges.
The organisation further warned that those behind the move might believe they are strengthening the ruling party, but argued that such actions could instead overheat the polity and expose the government to further criticism from Nigerians who may perceive the development as an attempt to suppress opposition voices.
“Those orchestrating this may think that they are helping the party in power. However, what they are doing is dangerously overheating the polity and further portraying the government as responsible for the current judicial controversy,” the statement added.
NEDMO urged the judiciary to continue to uphold constitutional freedoms and protect democratic principles rather than reduce the political space available for citizens’ participation.
The group also appealed to INEC to exercise caution and explore all available legal options to preserve Nigeria’s multi-party system.
“Nigeria’s democracy thrives on participation, not elimination. INEC must be circumspect in its handling of the Justice Lifu order by refraining from implementing the directive until all appeals are exhausted and the matter is finally determined by the highest court in the land,” NEDMO stated.
The organisation maintained that protecting political inclusion remains essential to sustaining democratic stability and national unity.
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