From Sidi Ibrahim Kaulahi, in Gusau
The Zamfara chapter of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has insisted that the party remains a legally recognized, fully operational and vibrant political platform, following recent court ruling to the contrary.
A statement signed by the Zamfara State Chairman of the NDC, Surajo Garba Maikatako, said the national leader and National Chairman has provided the necessary clarity that the NDC has not been deregistered, adding that, “We stand firm as a legitimate entity, committed to the principles of democracy and the service of the Nigerian people.
“With a deep sense of responsibility and an unshakeable belief in the future of our great nation, I address the dedicated members of our party, the resilient people of Zamfara State, and all Nigerians on behalf of the Zamfara State Chapter of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
“I do so guided by the visionary wisdom of our National Leader, His Excellency Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, CON, and the firm and purposeful leadership of our National Chairman, Senator Cleopas Moses Zuwoghe.
“The recent ruling by the Federal High Court in Lokoja, which arose from a spurious application by an obscure association known as the Peace Movement Party, is a decision we view as a temporary legal hurdle, not a death knell. It was neither an appeal against the judgment that mandated INEC to register the NDC nor a substantive suit challenging our existence. While we hold the judiciary in the highest esteem, we fundamentally disagree with this specific ruling”, Maikatako said.
According to the statement, “Acting swiftly on the direct instructions of our National Leader and National Chairman, our national legal team has already filed a robust appeal with the Court of Appeal. We are not just confident; we are certain that justice will be served.
“The appellate court will, by the grace of Almighty Allah and the strength of the law, reaffirm the rule of law and restore the full legal standing of our party. We have a strong case, and we will pursue it to its logical and just conclusion.
“It is important to reassure our teeming supporters that the NDC has meticulously complied with every constitutional and legal requirement since our registration. Our structures are solid, from the polling units to the national level. We have conducted our congresses and primaries successfully and in full compliance with the electoral timetable.
“Our candidates for all positions remain valid, and our preparations for the 2027 general elections are in full swing. No legal distraction will deter us from our mission to provide a credible alternative for the people of Nigeria”, the statement said.
