Makarfi rejects party deregistration ahead of 2027 elections

Former Kaduna State Governor and former PDP National Caretaker Committee Chairman, Ahmed Makarfi, has expressed strong opposition to the deregistration of political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections. He warned that such a move could be politically misinterpreted and weaken public confidence in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Responding to questions from Daily […]

Former Kaduna State Governor and former PDP National Caretaker Committee Chairman, Ahmed Makarfi, has expressed strong opposition to the deregistration of political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He warned that such a move could be politically misinterpreted and weaken public confidence in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Responding to questions from Daily Trust on the matter—following a recent court judgment calling for the deregistration of certain political parties—Makarfi argued that the timing of such an action is inappropriate given the proximity to the upcoming election cycle.
“I have not seen INEC itself announcing the deregistration of political parties. There have been court judgments and legal processes, but personally, I do not support the deregistration of political parties,” he said.
“Even if there are legal grounds, it is too late in the electoral cycle. Such actions would inevitably be interpreted politically and could undermine confidence in INEC.”
Makarfi, however, emphasized that political parties must still comply with existing electoral laws and regulations, including requirements for internal party processes.

“Political parties that have complied with INEC guidelines should be allowed to participate in the 2027 elections,” he noted, adding that a failure to obey electoral rules should attract sanctions, particularly regarding party primaries and candidate nominations.

The former governor further expressed confidence in the future of the PDP, declaring that the main opposition party remains better positioned for long-term survival and growth than any other political platform in the country.

“Among all the political parties, I think the PDP has a brighter future because it is deep-rooted and not built around any single individual.”