Federal High Court Judgment on the Registration of the Citizens Democratic Alliance (CDA)

This Certified True Copy (CTC) is the official judgment of the Federal High Court, delivered by Hon. Justice Obiora A. Egwuatu on 23 June 2026, in the suit between the Citizens Democratic Alliance (CDA) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). In its judgment, the Court held that the Citizens Democratic Alliance is deemed to have been registered as a political party with effect from 8 December 2025, having satisfied the requirements of the Electoral Act. The Court further declared that INEC's refusal to accord registration to the Party was unconstitutional, illegal, null and void, and that the Commission acted ultra vires its statutory powers. Consequently, the Court set aside INEC's letter rejecting the Party's application for registration and ordered the Commission to enter the Citizens Democratic Alliance into the Register of Political Parties and issue its Certificate of Registration within seven (7) days of being served with the judgment. INEC was formally served on 1st July, 2026. This document is published as part of the Citizens Democratic Alliance's commitment to transparency, accountability, and the preservation of its institutional history. It serves as an official reference for members, researchers, journalists, legal practitioners, and members of the public seeking to understand the judicial foundation upon which the Party's registration was secured.