ABUJA — The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has condemned the recent Federal High Court ruling directing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and four other political parties.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the civic organization warned that the court`s decision, which was based on a narrow interpretation of constitutional performance requirements, could significantly shrink Nigeria`s civic space and undermine democratic pluralism.

According to CHRICED, democracy is not merely the periodic administration of elections, but the continuous protection of citizens` rights to organize, associate, and choose from a broad spectrum of political alternatives. By reducing the number of available political platforms, the group argued that limiting participation weakens public trust and narrows the diversity of ideas required to keep the democratic system healthy.

CHRICED questioned whether electoral rules are being applied consistently and fairly, noting that selective enforcement could severely damage confidence in democratic institutions.

The organization is calling for caution in executing the judgment, urging that all affected parties be guaranteed full access to legal remedies and due process. Furthermore, CHRICED appealed to INEC, the judiciary, and key stakeholders to act in ways that inspire public trust ahead of the approaching electoral cycle.