Statement on INEC's Continued Failure to Comply with the Federal High Court Judgment on the Registration of the Citizens Democratic Alliance
17 July 2026
The Citizens Democratic Alliance wishes to draw the attention of the Nigerian public, members of the media, civil society organisations, and all stakeholders to the continued failure of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to comply with the judgment of the Federal High Court delivered on 23 June 2026 in respect of the registration of our party.
In its judgment, the Federal High Court unequivocally ordered INEC to issue the Citizens Democratic Alliance with its Certificate of Registration as a political party within seven (7) days of being served with the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment. In compliance with the Court's directive, the CTC was duly obtained and formally served on INEC on 1 July 2026. The period prescribed by the Court expired on 8 July 2026.
Regrettably, as of 17 July 2026, INEC has neither issued the Certificate of Registration nor communicated any lawful basis for its continued non-compliance with the judgment of a court of competent jurisdiction.
The Citizens Democratic Alliance firmly believes that the rule of law is the bedrock of constitutional democracy. Judicial decisions are binding on all persons and authorities, including public institutions established under the Constitution. Respect for court orders is indispensable to preserving public confidence in the administration of justice and the integrity of our democratic institutions.
Accordingly, we call on the Independent National Electoral Commission to comply without further delay with the judgment of the Federal High Court by issuing the Certificate of Registration to the Citizens Democratic Alliance, as ordered by the Court.
We also call on civil society organisations, the media, members of the legal profession, pro-democracy advocates, and all Nigerians who believe in constitutional governance to lend their voices in defence of the rule of law and the sanctity of judicial decisions.
The Citizens Democratic Alliance remains peaceful, law-abiding, and resolute in its commitment to advancing democratic governance and providing Nigerians with a credible political alternative through lawful and constitutional means.
CDA – LET'S WORK TO MAKE NIGERIA WORK!
Signed:
Citizen Umar Abdulrazaq Abdullahi
National Publicity Secretary
Citizens Democratic Alliance (CDA)