The Kwara State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has vehemently condemned a Federal High Court judgment that ordered the deregistration of the party and four others, labeling the decision a direct assault on Nigeria’s multi-party democracy.

The judgment, delivered on Monday by Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court, Abuja, instructed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the ADC, Accord Party, Action Peoples Party, Action Alliance, and Zenith Labour Party. The court cited their alleged failure to meet constitutional electoral performance requirements, including provisions under Section 225A of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and the Electoral Act 2022.

In a statement issued in Ilorin by its State Publicity Secretary, Abubakar Basambo, the ADC Kwara State chapter unequivocally rejected the ruling, asserting it constituted an attack on democratic freedoms.

The statement declared: “The African Democratic Congress, ADC Kwara State Chapter, condemns in totality the recent judgment delivered by Hon. Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court, Abuja, ordering the deregistration of ADC and other political parties.”

The party characterized the decision as a threat to Nigeria’s democratic stability and cautioned against any attempts to weaken opposition parties through judicial interpretations of electoral performance thresholds.

It argued that such a move distorts constitutional provisions guaranteeing political participation and association.

“To deregister political parties ahead of 2027 based on past electoral performance is to rewrite the Constitution by judicial fiat,” the statement read.

The ADC further maintained that no court possesses the authority to dissolve political parties on grounds not explicitly provided for in law.

“The Constitution guarantees freedom of association and the right to form and belong to political parties. No court can legally erase political parties because they did not meet an artificial ’25 per cent threshold’ that is not a condition for party existence under our laws,” the party stated.

The ADC alleged that the ruling was politically motivated, designed to weaken opposition platforms in anticipation of the 2027 general elections.

“This is clearly an attempt by forces within the ruling establishment to frustrate, intimidate and destabilise parties that pose as credible alternatives in 2027,” it asserted.

Warning of broader consequences, the party stated that the judgment, if enforced, would erode public confidence in the electoral process.

“It will not only kill our democracy, but it will also dent the sanctity and integrity of our electoral process,” it cautioned.

Despite its strong condemnation, the party urged its members across Kwara State and Nigeria to remain calm, expressing confidence that the ruling would not stand.

“ADC was built on the mandate of the people, not on the mercy of any judge or government. The will of Nigerians cannot be deregistered by any court,” it affirmed.

“To all ADC members in Kwara and across Nigeria, please remain calm. Do not entertain fear or panic. This judgment will not stand. The truth will take its course.”

“With the support of Almighty Allah and the resilience of our people, ADC will come out stronger and record resounding victory in the coming election,” the statement concluded.

The party called on INEC to resist implementing the court order and appealed to the judiciary, civil society organizations, and pro-democracy advocates to defend democratic principles in Nigeria.

Cabo Verde stunned the football world by holding Spain to a 0–0 draw in their opening World Cup fixture, delivering one of the tournament’s early surprises. The result showcased the resilience and tactical discipline of the island nation, who frustrated Spain’s attacking stars throughout the encounter.

Spain’s Frustrated Attack
Spain dominated possession from the start, stringing passes across midfield and probing for openings. Yet, despite their control, they struggled to break down Cabo Verde’s compact defensive structure. Alvaro Morata and Ferran Torres both missed clear chances, while Pedri’s long-range effort was parried away by the inspired Cabo Verde goalkeeper.

The Spanish side grew increasingly frustrated as the match wore on, with their usual fluidity disrupted by Cabo Verde’s disciplined pressing and quick recovery runs.

Cabo Verde’s Defensive Masterclass
Cabo Verde entered the match as underdogs but executed their game plan with precision. Their backline remained organized, cutting off passing lanes and forcing Spain into wide areas. Goalkeeper Vozinha delivered a standout performance, making crucial saves and commanding his box with authority.

The team’s defensive resilience was matched by their composure in possession. Though chances were limited, Cabo Verde managed to relieve pressure with quick counterattacks, keeping Spain wary of committing too many players forward.

• Key Moments
  In the 34th minute, Morata’s header from a Dani Carvajal cross was tipped over the bar.
• Early in the second half, Pedri’s curling shot forced another save from Vozinha.
• Cabo Verde’s best chance came in the 72nd minute when Garry Rodrigues broke free on the counter, but his shot drifted wide.
• Each moment reinforced the narrative of Spain’s frustration and Cabo Verde’s determination.

Tactical Discipline and Spirit
Coach Bubista’s tactical approach proved decisive. By maintaining a compact shape and encouraging disciplined pressing, Cabo Verde neutralized Spain’s creativity. The players’ commitment to the plan reflected a collective spirit that resonated with fans watching across Africa and beyond.

Implications for the Group
The draw leaves Spain with work to do in their next fixtures, as dropped points could complicate their path to the knockout stages. For Cabo Verde, the result is historic. Securing a point against a global powerhouse boosts their confidence and strengthens their chances of advancing.

Cabo Verde’s goalless draw against Spain will be remembered as one of the standout moments of the World Cup’s early stages. Their defensive organization, goalkeeping heroics, and tactical discipline combined to frustrate a Spanish side expected to dominate. For Cabo Verde, the result is more than a point—it is a statement of intent and proof that even the smallest nations can challenge football’s giants.

Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has stirred fresh debate in Nigeria’s political circles after openly endorsing President Bola Tinubu during a rally in Ebonyi State. His remarks, delivered in Abakaliki alongside Governor Francis Nwifuru, emphasized solidarity among progressive leaders and a call for unity within the Igbo political bloc.

A Message of Solidarity
Soludo described his presence at the rally as a “solidarity visit,” stressing that progressive leaders must work together to strengthen national unity. He praised Governor Nwifuru as a brother and pledged support for Tinubu’s administration, noting that cooperation across party lines is essential for Nigeria’s stability.

Igbo Political Strategy
In a pointed message to the Igbo community, Soludo urged a shift from grievance-driven politics to pragmatic engagement. He argued that repeated protest voting had left the region politically disadvantaged and called for a new approach focused on partnership and progress.

“Enough of the politics of lamentations. We must now move from the alliance of protest to the alliance for progress,” Soludo said, urging Ndigbo to embrace a strategy that ensures their votes translate into tangible influence.

APGA’s Position
Although Soludo leads the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), he hinted that the party would soon take a formal stance to align with broader progressive coalitions. His comments suggest APGA may seek closer collaboration with Tinubu’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), a move that could reshape alliances ahead of future elections.

National Context
Soludo’s endorsement comes at a time when Nigeria faces economic and social challenges. He expressed optimism in Tinubu’s efforts to address these issues, framing his support as part of a collective drive to stabilize governance. The rally reinforced Tinubu’s push to consolidate backing across regions, particularly in the South-East, where political alignment has often been fragmented.

Implications for Igbo Politics
The governor’s remarks highlight an emerging debate within Igbo political circles: whether continued opposition to ruling parties serves the region’s interests or whether pragmatic alliances could yield greater benefits. Soludo’s call for unity and strategic engagement may influence future political calculations in the South-East.

Governor Soludo’s endorsement of President Tinubu at the Ebonyi rally signals more than a gesture of solidarity—it reflects a broader push for political realignment among progressives and within the Igbo bloc. His appeal for pragmatic engagement underscores the urgency of redefining strategies to secure influence in national politics.