The leader of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Henry Seriake Dickson, has strongly condemned the Federal High Court order issued in Lokoja, describing it as legally flawed, anti-democratic, and a calculated attempt to undermine the party’s growing momentum.
Reacting to the ruling by Justice Isah Dashen on Friday morning, Dickson said he was shocked, just like other NDC leaders, officials, candidates, and supporters across the country.
He argued that the court order lacks legal merit and is designed to damage the credibility and progress the NDC has made in a short period.
“This order is illegal and will not stand,” Dickson said. “It is against the principles of multi-party democracy and is intended to shrink the democratic space. We will resist it alongside every Nigerian who believes in democracy.”
He disclosed that the party’s legal team has already begun the process of challenging the ruling and expressed confidence that the court order would soon be overturned.
While urging party members, candidates, and supporters to remain calm, Dickson encouraged them to continue their political activities without fear.
“This is simply the first test of our resolve,” he said. “Our commitment to building a stronger democracy remains unwavering. We are confident that this challenge will pass, and the NDC and all its candidates will emerge victorious.”
Dickson also questioned the basis of the lawsuit, noting that it was brought by an unregistered association that is neither a recognised political party nor entitled to exclusive rights over any political logo under Nigerian law.
According to him, the association had no legal interest in the matter because it neither applied for political party registration in 2025 nor featured among the 171 associations that submitted applications or the 21 that were eventually shortlisted.
“We know where this is coming from,” he stated. “Some people are uncomfortable with the remarkable progress the NDC has recorded in just five months through hard work and our commitment to strengthening multi-party democracy.”
Despite the legal setback, Dickson insisted the party would not be discouraged.
“We will pursue every lawful judicial avenue to correct what we consider a judicial error. Justice Dashen has clearly erred in law, and we are determined to ensure that this anomaly is corrected.”
He reassured supporters across Nigeria and in the diaspora that the party remains focused on its mission, saying the latest development only confirms that the NDC’s rising influence is attracting attention.
Quoting one of his favourite sayings on struggle, Dickson said, “First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they attack you, then you win.”
“We are now at the stage where we are under attack,” he added. “But we are confident that victory will follow.”
Dickson further revealed that, despite the court ruling, thousands of Nigerians registered as members of the NDC on Friday in what he described as a powerful show of solidarity and support for the party.
“Even in difficult moments, God has a way of turning challenges into opportunities,” he said. “What some intended for evil is already working in our favour.”
He concluded by thanking Nigerians for their growing confidence in the NDC, saying their support continues to strengthen the party’s determination to deepen multi-party democracy in the country.
“Our appreciation goes to every Nigerian who believes in our vision. Your encouragement inspires us to continue this struggle for a more inclusive and vibrant democracy.”
