The Coalition for Democracy, comprising nine opposition political parties, has expressed concern over the Federal High Court judgment on the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), warning that the development could weaken Nigeria’s democratic system ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The coalition, in a statement issued on Friday and signed by Salihu Moh. Lukman, said the judgment, which reportedly affected the Senator David Mark-led leadership of the ADC and invalidated its presidential candidacy, could have far-reaching implications for political competition in the country.
It described the development as part of what it alleged was a growing attempt to weaken opposition parties and shrink the democratic space ahead of the 2027 elections.
The group said the situation affecting the ADC could eventually affect other opposition parties, questioning whether political parties would be allowed to participate freely in the electoral process.
While reaffirming its respect for the independence of the judiciary and the right of aggrieved parties to seek legal redress, the coalition warned against the use of judicial institutions to undermine political competition.
It also expressed solidarity with the ADC over its decision to challenge the judgment through the appropriate legal channels.
The coalition called on opposition parties, civil society organisations, the Nigerian Bar Association, organised labour, the media and Nigerians to support peaceful and lawful efforts to protect political pluralism and democratic participation.
It maintained that all political parties should be allowed to organise, campaign and participate in credible elections without undue interference.
The Coalition for Democracy emerged from the G100 Opposition Summit held in Abuja on August 31, 2026. It comprises nine political parties: the ADC, Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA), National Rescue Movement (NRM), Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Social Democratic Party (SDP) and Youth Progressives Party (YPP).
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