By Our Correspondent
Today, Friday December 2025,the pressure group Civic Action for Democracy (CDA) in Imo State held a world press conference to sound the alarm over the continued recognition of the deregistered Action Peoples Party (APP) by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). CDA described this as not merely an administrative oversight but a serious threat to the very foundation of Nigerias democracy
The Action Peoples Party was officially deregistered following a thorough review of its compliance with the requirements of the Electoral Act. The party failed to meet the minimum standards for internal governance, financial transparency, and nationwide operational capacity as mandated by law. Its deregistration was intended to uphold the integrity of the electoral system and ensure that only legitimate political parties participate in national elections
Despite this clear legal directive, INEC continues to list APP in its official records. CDA warned that allowing a deregistered party to remain active in the electoral system is not just a technical lapse but a potential constitutional crisis. Such recognition creates avenues for legal confusion, undermines public trust in electoral institutions, and opens the door for political manipulation ahead of the 2027 general elections. If INEC fails to act decisively, it risks delegitimizing the entire electoral process and triggering political instability across the nation
This is not a partisan issue. It is a matter of upholding the law, protecting the constitution, and safeguarding the future of Nigerian democracy. Officials within INEC who have knowingly allowed APP to remain registered must be identified and held accountable. CDA called for a full investigation to determine whether this recognition stems from administrative negligence, political favoritism, or deliberate collusion with corrupt interests. Nigerians have the right to demand transparency and accountability from the institution charged with safeguarding the integrity of their votes
Security agencies have a critical role to play. Every individual involved in facilitating this illegal recognition must be thoroughly investigated. CDA urged law enforcement to examine financial records, internal communications, and party networks to uncover any hidden agendas, irregular transactions, or corrupt arrangements. No stone should be left unturned to ensure that the rule of law prevails over vested interests
The implications of INECs inaction go far beyond administrative errors. The continued presence of APP in the electoral system threatens to create a legal quagmire where candidates, voters, and political stakeholders may be drawn into prolonged disputes over legitimacy. It could also trigger nationwide protests, civil unrest, and deep political divisions all at a time when Nigeria cannot afford instability. The 2027 elections, a critical milestone for democratic consolidation, are at risk of being undermined before they even begin
CDA stressed that protecting democracy is a collective responsibility. Civil society, the media, professional bodies, labor unions, faith organizations, student groups, and every concerned Nigerian must rise together to demand justice. Democracy is not guaranteed; it is fragile and hard-won. Allowing the illegal recognition of a deregistered party sets a dangerous precedent and emboldens those who seek to subvert democratic institutions for personal or political gain
The call to action is urgent and unequivocal. INEC must immediately remove APP from all official records and publicly confirm its deregistration. Security agencies must investigate and prosecute anyone complicit in this breach of the law. Civil society and the media must monitor developments closely, report irregularities, and keep the public informed. Every Nigerian has a stake in ensuring that the nations electoral process is free, fair, and transparent
Failure to act now will have far-reaching consequences. Beyond the legal and procedural implications, continued recognition of APP risks eroding citizens faith in democratic governance, undermining investor confidence, and threatening national stability. Nigeria cannot afford half-measures, delayed responses, or selective enforcement of the law. The time to act is today. Delay is a threat to the survival of the nation
Nigeria must survive. Democracy must endure. INEC must act decisively to restore the integrity of the electoral system. Security agencies must investigate and hold violators accountable. Civil society must mobilize to safeguard the democratic future of the nation. Every Nigerian has a role to play and the window for action is closing fast. The survival of the nation and the credibility of the 2027 elections depend on immediate, transparent, and unwavering action
“Despite repeated attempts, all efforts to contact the Director, Voter Education & Publicity (TEI), Ms. Victoria Eta-Messi, as at press time were unsuccessful.”
