Peter Obi Reacts to Lokaja Court 'Bizarre' Ruling Against NDC

The Peter Obi Media Reach (POMR) has described Friday’s Lokoja Federal High Court, ruling that nullified the registration of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, as “a hurdle, not a stop sign” in its political push.

In a statement, on Friday, by POMR Spokesman, Idris Zekeri Jnr, and released June 26, 2026, the media office said it had been “bombarded with calls from newsrooms and other concerned persons” following the Lokoja High Court judgment.

“We have received the news of today’s bizarre ruling from the court in Lokoja regarding the legal status of the Nigeria Democratic Congress,” the statement read. “While our legal teams are thoroughly reviewing the judgment to initiate immediate corrective and appellate measures, our Principal urges all our supporters, coalition partners, and patriots nationwide to remain absolutely calm and focused.”

Earlier Friday, Justice Isah Dashen of the Federal High Court, Lokoja, set aside the court’s December 10, 2025, judgment that had ordered INEC to register the NDC. The judge held that the Peace Movement Party, which claims ownership of the disputed logo, was not joined in the original suit, rendering the earlier decision “constitutionally defective.” The ruling directs all parties to return to their pre-December 2025 positions, effectively withdrawing NDC’s certificate of registration pending a fresh hearing.

Reacting, POMR said the development was expected. “We always knew that the journey to dismantle a deeply entrenched and grossly underperforming political status quo would be met with fierce institutional resistance and unexpected legal detours,” the statement said.

“Our commitment to providing a transparent, legitimate, and formidable alternative for Nigerians remains unshakeable. The platform we are building is robust, and our legal rights will be vigorously pursued. Do not be discouraged; the vehicle may face a temporary breakdown, but our destination remains non-negotiable.”

POMR added that its legal teams are reviewing the judgment and will take “immediate corrective and appellate measures.”

The court ordered the substantive suit to start afresh, with INEC, the Peace Movement Party, and the NDC as parties. The ruling does not permanently bar the NDC from registration but nullifies the order compelling INEC to register it.