Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has called for the reversal of the recent Federal High Court judgment ordering the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and other political parties, warning that such decisions could further damage public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
The former Anambra State governor expressed concern over what he described as a steady decline in trust in institutions responsible for protecting justice, fairness, and democracy in the country.
In a statement shared on his verified social media accounts, Obi argued that strong institutions are essential for national development and economic growth, stressing that public confidence in the rule of law must never be compromised.
According to him, one of Nigeria’s biggest challenges is the growing loss of faith in institutions that should guarantee justice and equal treatment for all citizens.
Obi noted that while investors can often cope with security concerns, policy changes, and market fluctuations, uncertainty surrounding judicial independence and the legal system remains a major obstacle to investment and economic progress.
He lamented that some businesses now prefer agreements governed by foreign legal systems because they have greater confidence in those institutions than in Nigeria’s own judicial framework.
In his words:
“That should concern every patriot.”
Reflecting on previous controversies involving the judiciary, Obi referenced the removal of former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Walter Onnoghen, saying his concerns at the time were not driven by politics but by the long-term impact such actions could have on institutional credibility.
The former governor warned against sacrificing national institutions for political interests, insisting that countries make meaningful progress only when institutions are stronger than individuals.
Addressing the court ruling directly, Obi said:
“The Federal High Court judgment ordering the de-registration of the ADC and other political parties is just one of those activities that further reduces the common man’s trust in our legal systems. It should be reversed.”
He maintained that democratic institutions must remain independent and free from actions capable of weakening public confidence.
Obi also pledged his commitment to strengthening the judiciary and restoring confidence in the nation’s legal system, emphasizing that justice must remain impartial, accessible, and respected by all.
According to him, ordinary Nigerians should be able to trust the courts to protect their rights, while businesses should operate without fear of legal uncertainty or intimidation.
The NDC presidential candidate further called on judges, senior lawyers, legal luminaries, and members of the legal profession to rise in defense of democracy and the rule of law.
He stated:
“To our judges, legal luminaries, senior advocates and lawyers: this is your moment. Rise, defend the rule of law, take back your country.”
Despite his concerns, Obi expressed optimism that Nigeria can rebuild trust in its institutions and strengthen its democracy if the right steps are taken.
He concluded by reiterating his belief that a better Nigeria remains possible through strong institutions, accountability, and respect for the rule of law.
Source: Peter Obi’s statement via social media
