By Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka
Abuja
The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to register the Citizens Democratic Alliance (CDA), as a political party and issue it a certificate of registration without delay.
Justice Obiora Egwuatu delivered the judgment on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, in a suit filed by the party’s founders against INEC over its refusal to register the association.
Tamunotonye Samuel Solomon Inioribo and two others sued INEC after the commission blocked the party’s registration in December 2025. The plaintiffs argued that CDA had met all legal requirements before the rejection.
According to court documents, the political association had already secured initial approval from INEC, submitted all necessary paperwork, and passed security and background checks on its national leaders and offices.
The founders insisted in their suit that they “ticked every single box required by law” for party registration. Justice Egwuatu agreed with their argument and held that INEC had no lawful basis to deny registration.
The court’s order means INEC must immediately hand over the certificate of registration to CDA, clearing the way for the party to begin political activities ahead of future elections.
With the ruling, the number of registered political parties heading into the 2027 general elections is set to increase. Nigeria currently has 22 registered parties that have already submitted membership lists to INEC.
CDA describes itself as a progressive movement focused on democratic reforms, jumpstarting the economy, and promoting accountability in government. Party officials say they will now mobilize nationwide to build structures for the 2027 polls.
