- It also highlighted the importance of access to justice, arguing that many citizens lack the means to challenge constitutional breaches
- The notice further stated that the AGF is expected to work with relevant institutions
- According to the filing, backing the case would strengthen accountability and reinforce the supremacy of the Constitution
The Attorney General of the Federation has backed a lawsuit calling for the deregistration of several political parties, including the African Democratic Congress, over alleged violations of constitutional provisions.
Details of the AGF’s position were contained in a notice filed before the Federal High Court in Abuja in suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/2637/2026, Eko Hot Blog gathered.
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The case lists the Independent National Electoral Commission, the AGF, and parties such as Action Alliance, Action Peoples Party, Accord, and Zenith Labour Party as defendants.
In the filing, submitted under Order 15 Rule 1 of the Federal High Court Civil Procedure Rules, the AGF, named as the second defendant, stated that it supports the case within the scope of its constitutional responsibilities.
The office explained that it serves as the guardian of the Constitution and is obligated to promote actions that ensure its provisions are upheld. It added that the Attorney General has the authority to initiate, defend, or support legal proceedings aimed at enforcing constitutional compliance.
Citing Section 150(1) of the Constitution, the AGF noted its role in implementing laws, including those governing elections.
It emphasised that its dual responsibility as a government representative and protector of citizens’ rights requires it to act in the public interest and ensure laws are properly applied.
The notice further stated that the AGF is expected to work with relevant institutions and stakeholders to guarantee effective enforcement of legal provisions, adding that its support for the suit aligns with its duty to protect constitutional integrity.
It also highlighted the importance of access to justice, arguing that many citizens lack the means to challenge constitutional breaches, and that the AGF’s involvement helps bridge that gap.
According to the filing, backing the case would strengthen accountability and reinforce the supremacy of the Constitution, while also setting a legal precedent for proper adherence to the law.
The AGF maintained that the plaintiff has sufficient interest to question alleged irregularities within the electoral system, pointing to Section 225A of the Constitution, which provides grounds for deregistering political parties that fail to meet required standards.
It argued that allowing inactive or non-compliant parties to remain registered would overcrowd ballot papers, increase public spending, and complicate election management, thereby undermining the intent of the law.
The AGF further warned that any failure by INEC to act in line with these provisions could amount to a breach of constitutional duty and may be challenged through public interest litigation.
The case represents a fresh legal contest over the regulation of political parties and the extent of INEC’s powers under Nigeria’s Constitution and Electoral Act.
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