The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register a new political party, the Citizens Democratic Alliance (CDA), and issue the group its certificate of registration.
Justice Obiora Egwuatu delivered the judgment on Tuesday, June 23, following a suit filed by Tamunotonye Samuel Solomon Inioribo and two others over INEC’s refusal to complete the registration process for the party.
The plaintiffs had challenged INEC’s decision in December 2025, arguing that the proposed political party had fulfilled all legal requirements for registration before the commission halted the process.
The group said it had obtained initial approval, submitted the required documents and completed security and background checks involving its national officers and proposed party offices.
In his judgment, Justice Egwuatu agreed with the applicants’ position and directed INEC to issue the Citizens Democratic Alliance its registration certificate without delay.
The ruling is expected to increase the number of political parties participating in Nigeria’s political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The CDA describes itself as a progressive political movement focused on promoting democratic reforms, economic development and greater accountability in governance.
Nigeria currently has 22 registered political parties recognised by INEC, with the parties already submitting their membership lists to the commission as preparations continue ahead of the 2027 elections.
The registration of the CDA will add another platform for political participation as parties begin positioning themselves for the next electoral cycle.
