Accord has opposed a lawsuit seeking its deregistration, insisting it meets all constitutional requirements to remain a registered political party
The suit, filed by the National Forum of Former Legislators, urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister several parties, including Accord, over alleged failure to meet electoral performance thresholds.
The plaintiffs argued that INEC lacks the discretion to retain parties that do not satisfy the minimum conditions outlined in Section 225A of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
The provision empowers the electoral body to deregister parties that fail to meet requirements such as securing at least 25 percent of votes in a state during presidential elections.
They also contended that the continued existence of underperforming parties clogs the electoral system, increases costs, and undermines effective election management.
In response, Accord dismissed the claims, stating that there is no legal basis for its deregistration. The party’s spokesperson, Joseph Omorogbe, said the party has clearly met constitutional benchmarks and should not be considered for removal from the political register.
According to him, Accord currently holds significant political positions across the country, including a sitting governor, Ademola Adeleke, as well as representation in the National Assembly and state legislatures.
Omorogbe added that the party continues to attract new members and remains a viable platform within Nigeria’s political space.
