National Democratic Congress leader Henry Seriake Dickson has rejected a Federal High Court order issued in Lokoja, describing it as “illegal,” lacking legal merit, and aimed at stifling multi-party democracy in Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Friday, Dickson said he, along with other NDC leaders, officials, candidates, and members of the public, was “jolted” by the order from the court presided over by Honourable Justice Isah Dashen.
“The order is illegal and will not stand. It is against multi-party democracy, anti-democratic in nature, and aimed at narrowing and stifling the democratic space. It will be resisted by all of us and by all lovers of democracy in Nigeria,” he said.
Dickson disclosed that the party has assembled a team of lawyers who are taking steps to set the order aside. He urged NDC members, supporters, and candidates to remain calm and continue normal political activities, saying, “This is only the first test of our commitment and resilience, both of which are not in doubt. Even this shall pass, and the NDC and all our candidates shall cruise to victory.”
He faulted the suit for being filed by “an unregistered association, which is not a registered political party and has no exclusive right to any logo under the law.” According to him, the association was not a necessary party because it had no interest in the subject matter, did not apply for registration in 2025, and was not among the 171 associations that applied or the 21 shortlisted for registration.
“We know where this is coming from. It is coming from those who are shocked by the progress the NDC has made within such a short period as a result of our hard work and commitment to deepening multi-party democracy,” he said.
Referring to Justice Dashen’s ruling as a “judicial anomaly,” Dickson said the party would use appropriate judicial channels to correct it, adding that the judge “has clearly erred in law.” He quoted: “First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they attack you, then you win,” and said, “We are under attack… But thereafter, we shall win.”
Dickson also claimed the development had strengthened the party’s support base, stating that “thousands of Nigerians across the country registered as NDC members today to show their solidarity, sympathy and support.” He thanked Nigerians for their confidence in the NDC, saying it “only strengthen our resolve to continue the struggle to deepen multi-party democracy in Nigeria.”
