The political stability of the newly formed “OK Movement” is already under strain following a declaration by Dr. Umar Ardo that a legal process is underway to cancel the registration of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
Ardo, convener of the League of Northern Democrats and a key promoter of the All Democratic Alliance (ADA), announced on Monday that his group is challenging what he describes as irregularities in the NDC’s registration by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). “We are in court over NDC irregularities in registration by INEC. The court will cancel the NDC registration,” Ardo stated, signaling a major hurdle for Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso just days after they joined the party.
The dispute centers on how the NDC obtained its certificate of registration. Ardo’s group alleges the party bypassed standard screening and verification procedures required for new political associations, claiming it emerged through a “backdoor” court order rather than the formal INEC shortlisting process other associations underwent in 2025.
The development presents a difficult scenario for Obi, who recently left the African Democratic Congress (ADC) amid internal disputes and concerns over primary processes linked to Atiku Abubakar. With the NDC now facing a legal challenge, both Obi and Kwankwaso risk losing a viable platform to contest the 2027 elections if the court rules in Ardo’s favour.
Analysts suggest the lawsuit may carry broader political implications beyond administrative concerns. Coming shortly after sharp criticism of Obi from the Presidency, some observers interpret the move as part of a wider effort to disrupt opposition realignment. Although NDC leaders insist their registration is valid and traceable to a 2017 application, the uncertainty surrounding the case could discourage potential donors and grassroots organisers.
As the “OK Movement” seeks to build momentum, the unfolding court battle in Abuja may ultimately determine whether Obi and Kwankwaso’s latest political alignment can withstand the high-stakes legal and strategic pressures shaping Nigeria’s opposition landscape.
