- Safiu Kehinde
The Accord Party’s 2027 Oyo Governorship candidate, Oriyomi Hamzat, has allayed concern over the Abuja Federal High Court’s ruling on the deregistration of the party alongside four others.
NPO Reported that the court had on Monday ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the party over failure to meet the electoral requirements.
Also among the affected parties are the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), Action Alliance (AA), and the Action Peoples Party (AAP).
Reacting to the development, Oriyomi, in a statement issued on his official X handle, faulted the ruling which according to him, will be appealed.
He also noted that the ruling contradicted the legal procedures which demanded the stalling of any hearing by a low court on a pending case before the Court of Appeal.
“The judgment delivered today by the Federal High Court ordering the deregistration of ACCORD and other political parties raises serious legal questions that will undoubtedly be resolved by the appellate courts.
“As democrats, we know the rule of law.
“However, it is equally important to point out that our legal system recognizes that once an appeal has been entered and matters affecting the substance of a case are before a higher court, lower courts are expected to exercise caution in taking steps that may render appellate proceedings nugatory.” He said.
The renowned Ibadan-based broadcaster however allayed concern over the ruling as he affirmed that the ruling will be challenged.
“Our legal team has informed us that issues relating to this matter are already before the Court of Appeal, and we remain confident that justice will prevail.
“More importantly, our supporters and members should not lose sight of the bigger picture.
“Political parties are not mere corporate entities, they are vehicles through which citizens exercise their constitutional right to political participation.
“Any action that seeks to limit political choices available to the electorate must be subjected to the highest level of constitutional scrutiny.” Oriyomi wrote.
The Accord Oyo governorship candidate held that there is no cause for panic, stressing that no court judgement can diminish growing desire of Nigerians for new political direction.
“I therefore call on all our supporters across Oyo State and Nigeria to remain calm, peaceful and focused. There is no cause for panic.
“ACCORD remains committed to providing people of Oyo state with a credible alternative built on integrity, accountability and people-centered leadership.
“Let me also make it clear that no court judgment can diminish the growing desire of Nigerians for a new political direction.
“The movement for a better future is bigger than any single ruling and it cannot be stopped by temporary legal setbacks.
“Our lawyers are already taking all necessary steps within the ambit of the law and we are confident that the appropriate judicial authorities will address the issues arising from today’s decision.” He said.
Oriyomi urged the party’s supporters to stay united, stay peaceful, and remain steadfast.
“Democracy is strengthened not by intimidation or exclusion, but by allowing the people to freely choose their leaders.
“At the appropriate time, the people will have their say, and their voice will be heard.” He added.