Court Rules Nigerian Political Parties Cannot Operate Formal Diaspora Chapters

A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, has reportedly held that Nigerian political parties cannot establish or maintain formal chapters outside the country. The decision arose from a challenge to the APC UK Chapter, which was said to have conducted internal activities, planned elections and received payments from members abroad. The court held that the relevant provision in the party’s constitution allowing a diaspora chapter was inconsistent with Nigeria’s constitutional and electoral framework. The ruling also states that political parties must account for and remit foreign donations or assets to INEC within 21 days. It draws a distinction between Nigerians abroad identifying with a party or joining political discussions and a foreign chapter exercising executive, electoral, administrative or financial powers. As parties prepare for the 2027 elections, the judgment raises wider questions about how Nigerians in the diaspora can lawfully participate in party affairs and political mobilisation.

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