By Musa Baba Adamu
The Kwankwasiyya Movement has warned against what it described as attempts to weaken Nigeria’s opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general election, following a court judgment affecting the registration of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, (NDC).
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the movement said the ruling, which set aside an earlier court order directing the Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC), to register the NDC, had raised concerns about the country’s democratic process.
While reaffirming its respect for the judiciary as the final arbiter in legal disputes, the group argued that the judgment could have far-reaching implications for political pluralism and democratic participation.
According to the movement, many Nigerians are seeking credible political alternatives and should not be deprived of the opportunity to choose from a wide range of parties during the 2027 elections.
The group also questioned the timing of the litigation, noting that the legal proceedings had gained momentum as INEC had already begun implementing its timetable for the 2027 general election, including activities relating to party nominations and the submission of candidates.
It said the development had heightened suspicions that there were efforts to shrink the democratic space before the polls.
“We’ll resist any plot to cripple the opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections. The litigation has suddenly assumed renewed urgency precisely when the Independent National Electoral Commission has commenced activities under the timetable for the 2027 general elections, including processes leading to party nominations and candidate submissions,” the statement read.
The movement maintained that safeguarding political competition and ensuring a level playing field for all parties remain essential to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy
