ENUGU — Ray Kene Ogbodo, a governorship candidate for the 2027 Enugu State election has stated that the judgment of the Court of Appeal setting aside the Federal High Court’s order that sought to deregister the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and four other political parties is a welcome victory for constitutional democracy, the rule of law and Nigeria’s multiparty democratic system.
Ogbodo said, the decision is bigger than the fortunes of the five political parties involved. It is a victory for every Nigerian who believes that democracy thrives on political choice, healthy competition and the right of citizens to freely associate and participate in the political process.
A strong democracy cannot flourish where opposition parties are weakened through questionable legal manoeuvres or where the political space appears to be narrowed in favour of those already in power. Whether in government or opposition, every political party deserves equal protection under the Constitution and equal opportunity to present its vision before the Nigerian people.
I therefore urge the ruling APC and all institutions of government to resist any temptation to interfere, directly or indirectly, with the legitimate activities of opposition political parties. The responsibility of any democratic government is not to determine who should constitute the opposition but to guarantee a level playing field where Nigerians are free to make that choice through the ballot box.
The real contest should not be fought in the courtroom or through administrative obstacles. It should be fought on ideas, policies, competence, integrity and the ability to improve the lives of our people.
As we approach the 2027 general elections, Nigeria needs less political intimidation and more issue-based engagement. Our nation is grappling with economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment and declining public confidence in governance. These are the challenges deserving of our collective attention—not unnecessary battles that distract from the urgent task of nation-building.
Here in Enugu State, our focus remains unwavering. We are committed to offering the people a credible alternative built on modern, ethical and people-centred leadership. We believe that democracy is strengthened when voters have genuine choices and when every political party is allowed to compete freely, fairly and peacefully.
I commend the judiciary for reaffirming the supremacy of the rule of law. I also urge all political actors to respect judicial decisions, uphold democratic values and place the national interest above partisan considerations.
Nigeria belongs to all of us. Our democracy must never become the preserve of one party or one political interest.
The future of our nation will not be secured by shrinking the democratic space, but by expanding it—through justice, fairness, inclusion and the freely expressed will of the Nigerian people.
Ray Kene Ogbodo
Enugu Governorship Candidate
