Court order to deregister political parties triggers backlash in Taraba.

The governorship candidates of the Accord Party, Professor Jerome Nyameh, and the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Alhaji Abubakar Tutare, in Taraba state, dismissed concerns about a Federal High Court ruling that ordered the deregistration of both parties along with three others by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The decision was issued on Monday in Abuja by Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court, directing INEC to deregister the affected parties for alleged non‑compliance with statutory requirements.

Both candidates insisted that the ruling does not end the legal existence of their parties, noting that higher courts retain the final authority.

Responding to the judgment, Accord Party governorship candidate Professor Nyameh described the ruling as a first‑instance decision that remains open to appeal.

He emphasized that the legal process is not finished, as the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court can still review the case.

“The Federal High Court is just a trial court. There is the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court,” Nyameh said.

While urging party supporters to stay calm and law‑abiding, he expressed confidence in the Accord Party’s ongoing political relevance, asserting that it remains a viable platform for Nigerians.

Nyameh also highlighted the party’s internal strength, noting that it includes prominent figures such as the sitting governor of Osun state, Ademola Adeleke, and that preparations for future political activities continue.

ADC governorship candidate Alhaji Abubakar Tutare likewise rejected worries that the court’s ruling would lead to the party’s collapse.

Tutare argued that the African Democratic Congress remains politically relevant, citing its representation in the House of Representatives as proof of its continued legal and electoral standing.

He urged supporters not to panic, expressing confidence that the party would ultimately prevail if the matter proceeds to the Supreme Court.

“We are not worried. We believe the Supreme Court will do justice in the end,” he said.

For now, both campaigns in Taraba State have asked supporters to focus on their political activities while awaiting further legal clarification.