2027: Peter Obi Breaks Silence on Court Ruling Against NDC, Says ‘It’s a Hurdle, Not a Stop Sign’

Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 general election, Peter Obi, has reacted to Friday’s ruling by a Federal High Court in Lokoja, Kogi State, which ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) not to recognise the party pending the resolution of legal disputes surrounding its registration.

Obi described the court’s decision as a temporary setback rather than a defeat, insisting that the ruling would not derail the party’s mission to provide Nigerians with a credible political alternative.

His position was conveyed in a statement issued by the Peter Obi Media Reach (POMR) and signed by its spokesman, Idris Zekeri. The statement noted that the media office had received numerous inquiries from journalists and concerned Nigerians following what it described as a “strange” court ruling.

According to the statement, the party’s legal team is currently reviewing the judgment and preparing immediate legal and appellate actions to challenge the decision.

“We have received the news of today’s bizarre ruling from the court in Lokoja regarding the legal status of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). 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,” the statement read.

Obi acknowledged that efforts to challenge the existing political order were always expected to encounter legal and institutional obstacles.

“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.

“Today’s ruling is a hurdle, not a stop sign. 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,” the statement added.

The ruling has generated widespread reactions within political circles as the NDC continues preparations ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the party expected to challenge the court’s decision through the appellate process.