The Zamfara State Chairman of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Alhaji Garba Maikatako, has dismissed claims that the party has been deregistered, insisting that the NDC remains a legally recognised and fully operational political party.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Maikatako said the recent ruling by the Federal High Court in Lokoja does not affect the party’s legal status, maintaining that the NDC remains committed to Nigeria’s democratic process.
“The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) remains a legally recognised, fully operational and vibrant political party. We remain committed to the principles of democracy and service to the Nigerian people,” he said.
He added that the party’s National Leader and National Chairman had already clarified that the NDC was not deregistered.
Maikatako described the Lokoja court ruling as a temporary legal challenge rather than a final decision on the party’s existence.
“The court ruling is merely a temporary legal hurdle, not a death knell. It was neither an appeal against the judgment directing INEC nor a substantive case challenging the party’s existence,” he stated.
While expressing respect for the judiciary, the Zamfara NDC chairman said the party disagrees with the ruling and remains confident in its legal standing.
He also urged party members in Zamfara and across the country to remain calm, united and committed to the party’s vision.
“We remain steadfast under the leadership of Senator Henry Seriake Dickson and Senator Cleopas Moses Zuwoghe as we continue to strengthen our democratic ideals,” Maikatako added.
