By BONIFACE AKARAH

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has condemned the Federal High Court judgment ordering the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Accord Party, Action Alliance (AA), Action Peoples Party (APP), and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), describing it as a dangerous threat to Nigeria’s constitutional democracy.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, the group said, “the judgment is a massive threat to constitutional democracy, judicial integrity, and Nigeria’s multiparty system."

HURIWA expressed concern that the ruling was allegedly delivered despite a subsisting Court of Appeal order staying proceedings, warning that such action—if confirmed—would amount to a breach of judicial hierarchy.

The group further stated, “if properly established, such disregard of a superior court order represents a serious constitutional infraction and an affront to the doctrine of judicial hierarchy."

It warned that Nigeria risks deep democratic instability if court orders are ignored or selectively applied in politically sensitive matters ahead of the 2027 elections.

HURIWA noted that growing controversies around lower court decisions in opposition-related disputes were already raising public concern over neutrality and consistency in judicial processes.

The association said, “these recurring concerns must be urgently addressed to preserve public confidence in the judiciary.”

It also referenced appellate court principles on evidence, recalling that, “it is trite law that oral evidence cannot be used to contradict, alter, add to or vary the contents of a valid and unambiguous document.”

HURIWA argued that where documentary evidence is clear and unchallenged, it must prevail, warning that inconsistent lower court interpretations threaten legal certainty and democratic stability.

The group also cited concerns raised by stakeholders, including Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, on prior judicial pronouncements affirming the legality of registered political parties.

It stressed that any disregard of settled legal positions without appellate reversal could undermine constitutional governance and electoral confidence.

HURIWA questioned the urgency of the ruling, noting that the Court of Appeal is already seized of the matter. It asked, “why the haste to deliver such a consequential judgment when the Court of Appeal is already seized of the matter and has fixed a hearing date?”

The association warned that perceived political targeting through judicial decisions could deepen mistrust in institutions and destabilise democratic order.

It called on the National Judicial Council (NJC) to investigate the circumstances surrounding the judgment and ensure accountability where necessary.

HURIWA maintained that the judiciary must remain independent and insulated from political influence, adding that justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done.

The group concluded that democracy can only survive where courts act consistently, impartially, and strictly within constitutional boundaries.