A major hurdle is that the NDC didn’t complete the payment of the prescribed registration fee required by INEC for political parties seeking registration. Failure to meet such financial obligations could affect the party’s recognition and eligibility to participate in elections.
1. Court Order Recognising NDC Was Not A Final Settlement Of All Issues
The earlier court judgment directing INEC to recognise the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) as a political party did not completely resolve all legal and administrative questions surrounding the party’s registration. The recent reversal shows that critical issues were still outstanding, meaning the party’s legal status remains uncertain.
2. Failure To Properly Resolve The Party Logo Controversy
One of the major challenges facing the NDC is the dispute over its party logo. Another political association, the Peace Movement Party (PMP), reportedly raised objections that the NDC’s logo was similar to one it had earlier submitted to INEC. Until this matter is legally resolved, the party’s identity remains a subject of dispute.
3. Registration Process Was Not Fully Completed
Although NDC obtained a court order compelling INEC to recognise it, questions remain over whether all requirements for full political party registration were completed. A court directive alone does not automatically erase every statutory obligation required by INEC.
4. Outstanding Registration Fee Issue
A major hurdle is that the NDC didn’t complete the payment of the prescribed registration fee required by INEC for political parties seeking registration. Failure to meet such financial obligations could affect the party’s recognition and eligibility to participate in elections.
5. Reversal Of The Earlier Judgment Has Returned The Matter To The Beginning
The Federal High Court’s decision to set aside the earlier judgment means the legal battle is effectively back at the starting point. The case must now be heard afresh with all affected parties properly included, creating further delays ahead of 2027.
6. Lengthy Legal Process May Affect 2027 Readiness
With the possibility of appeals and further court proceedings, the NDC may run against the electoral timeline. Electoral timelines are fixed, and prolonged legal battles going to the Supreme Court could make it difficult for the party to complete all requirements before the 2027 elections.
7. Questions Over Conduct Of Party Primaries:
Political parties contesting elections must conduct credible primaries in line with electoral laws and ensure INEC monitoring. Questions have been raised over whether the NDC properly conducted its primaries, invited INEC officials, and submitted required reports. There are no official reports that NDC invited INEC to monitor its primaries.
