Osun State-based philanthropist and politician, Chief Peter Taiwo Ogundeji (APATA), has welcomed the judgment of the Court of Appeal which set aside the Federal High Court’s order for the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Accord Party and three other political parties.
He described the verdict as a reassuring affirmation of Nigeria’s constitutional democracy and an indication that the nation’s judiciary remains a dependable guardian of justice and the rule of law.
Chief Ogundeji, in a statement issued by his Media and Communications Office in Osogbo, Osun State, said the appellate court’s decision represents a significant victory for constitutional democracy, political pluralism and the fundamental right of Nigerians to freely associate through political parties of their choice.
He noted that the judgment would further consolidate confidence in the country’s democratic institutions and reinforce the principles upon which participatory governance is built.
The former aspirant for the Osun West Senatorial District said the judgment had reaffirmed the constitutional safeguards that underpin Nigeria’s multi-party democracy and would strengthen public confidence in the nation’s judicial system.
He maintained that democracy flourishes when citizens are free to make political choices without undue interference and when lawful institutions are protected in accordance with the Constitution.
According to Chief Ogundeji, “The Court of Appeal has once again demonstrated that the rule of law remains the bedrock of our democracy. This judgment is not only a victory for the affected political parties, but also for every Nigerian who believes in democratic freedom, justice and constitutional order. It is a reminder that our courts remain the ultimate protectors of constitutional rights and democratic values.”
Chief Ogundeji recalled that he recently resigned his membership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and subsequently joined the Accord Party in the exercise of his constitutional right to freedom of association.
He said every Nigerian must continue to enjoy the liberty to identify with any lawful political platform without intimidation or uncertainty, stressing that such freedom is indispensable to democratic development.
“My decision to join the Accord Party was based on conviction and the desire to continue contributing meaningfully to democratic development. Today’s judgment further reinforces the constitutional right of every citizen to belong to any lawful political party without fear or uncertainty. Democracy is strongest when citizens are free to make political choices guided by conscience, principle and the collective interest of the people,” Chief Ogundeji stated.
He further remarked, “Political competition should always be driven by ideas, service and the genuine aspiration to improve the lives of the people, not by attempts to weaken lawful institutions. Every political party that operates within the ambit of the law deserves equal protection under our Constitution, and that is exactly what today’s judgment has reinforced.”
Chief Ogundeji congratulated the national and state leadership of the Accord Party, as well as members and supporters across the country, on the favourable judgment. He urged them to remain peaceful, law-abiding and steadfast in their commitment to promoting good governance, democratic ideals and people-oriented programmes that will positively impact communities across Nigeria.
He also called on political stakeholders to deepen democratic engagement through issue-based campaigns, mutual respect and strict adherence to the rule of law. According to him, a vibrant multi-party system enriches democratic governance by offering citizens credible alternatives, encouraging healthy competition and fostering greater accountability in public service.