A fresh legal challenge has emerged ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, with a court being asked to disqualify candidates of the Accord Party over issues surrounding the party’s compliance with electoral laws.
The development adds to the growing legal and political battles confronting opposition parties as preparations for the next general elections gather momentum.
The controversy comes amid wider litigation involving the registration status of Accord and other political parties. In June 2026, the Federal High Court in Abuja ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister five parties, including Accord, the African Democratic Congress, Action Alliance, Action Peoples Party and Zenith Labour Party.
The ruling was challenged by the affected parties and INEC. The Court of Appeal subsequently suspended the execution of the deregistration order pending the determination of the appeals, leaving the matter subject to further judicial proceedings.
The dispute has raised concerns about the potential implications of court decisions for candidates who have already secured party tickets and are preparing for the 2027 elections.
Accord has also been involved in separate litigation over its presidential candidacy. In October 2026, the Federal High Court affirmed Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim as the party’s presidential candidate and directed that his name be submitted to INEC.
The latest legal challenge underscores the uncertainty surrounding some political parties and their candidates ahead of the elections. The outcome will depend on the specific claims presented before the court and the applicable provisions of the Constitution and electoral legislation.
As proceedings continue, the case is expected to attract considerable attention from political stakeholders, particularly those concerned about the eligibility of candidates and the ability of parties to participate in the 2027 electoral process.
