The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has disclosed that it is yet to receive the official court order.
Relating to the deregistration of the National Democratic Coalition (NDC), stressing that it will only take a decision after studying the directive and ensuring that its actions align with the law.
The electoral commission made the clarification amid growing public interest in the legal proceedings surrounding the status of the political party. According to INEC, any move concerning the recognition or deregistration of a political party must be guided by due process and the provisions of Nigeria's electoral framework.
INEC noted that while reports about the court's judgment have been circulating, the commission is still awaiting the formal transmission of the enrolled order before determining the next course of action. Officials explained that the commission cannot rely solely on media reports or unofficial accounts of court proceedings when dealing with issues that have legal implications.
The commission emphasized that it remains committed to respecting judicial decisions and will carefully review the contents of the court order once it is received.
Following that review, INEC said it would take what it described as a lawful and appropriate decision in line with the Constitution, the Electoral Act, and other relevant regulations governing political parties in Nigeria.
The development comes at a time when questions are being raised about the future of the NDC and its standing within Nigeria's political landscape. Political observers believe the outcome of the matter could have implications for the party's activities and participation in future electoral processes.
INEC, however, maintained that it would not be pressured into taking any premature action. The commission reiterated that adherence to the rule of law remains central to its operations and that all stakeholders should allow legal procedures to run their full course.
According to the electoral body, respecting court decisions and ensuring compliance with established legal processes are essential to safeguarding Nigeria's democratic institutions. It added that any determination regarding the NDC's status would be made only after all necessary legal requirements have been fulfilled.
As stakeholders await further developments, INEC assured Nigerians that it would handle the matter with transparency, fairness, and strict compliance with the law. The commission stressed that its ultimate responsibility is to ensure that all actions taken are legally sound and consistent with its constitutional mandate.
The awaited court order is expected to provide the basis upon which INEC will determine its next steps regarding the NDC, bringing greater clarity to a matter that has attracted attention within political and legal circles across the country.
