Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, a former presidential aspirant, has voiced strong criticism against a Federal High Court decision that ordered the deregistration of five political entities, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Accord Party. He views this move as a calculated effort to undermine opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued Tuesday, the Kwara-born politician expressed that the ruling poses a significant challenge to Nigeria’s multiparty democratic system. He noted that the judgment aligns with concerns he has raised since 2024 regarding a systematic drive to curb opposition influence before the upcoming elections.
Olawepo-Hashim pointed to various political maneuvers that seem designed to minimize electoral competition, such as pressuring opposition governors to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and fueling internal conflicts within opposition parties. He also accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of operating an electoral schedule that contradicts the 2026 Electoral Act, failing to implement necessary changes despite pending litigation.
The former candidate emphasized that this court ruling represents a severe blow to opposition politics and democratic engagement. He stressed that Nigeria’s democracy relies on multiple parties and called on all stakeholders—including citizens, civil society, and pro-democracy groups—to actively defend democratic institutions and ensure the integrity of the electoral process.