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Senator Seriake Dickson, National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has appealed to Peter Obi, the party's presidential candidate, and other aspirants to remain in the party despite a recent court ruling in Lokoja.

The controversy followed Friday's judgment by Justice Isah Dashen of the Federal High Court in Lokoja, which set aside the court's December 10, 2025 judgment directing the Independent National Electoral Commission to register the NDC as a political party.

Reacting to concerns that some candidates had become unsettled by the judgment, Dickson dismissed the speculation and assured members that the party remained on course.

He said, “That is what this kind of kangaroo situation is intended to achieve. But I’m here to assure all members. That’s not the report we have. Our candidates are steadfast and they have already emerged as candidates of our party.

“They know the steps that the party is taking. And in no distant time, they will be uploaded (on INEC portal). They will go into the polls and be on the ballot. So, there is nothing to fear. There’s no fear.

“Let me say, this kind of move is intended to be a distraction. It’s intended to shake our faith. But for some of us who are used to this kind of thing, in fact, we even expect more. Because if you have to be in this kitchen for some time, you must have a way to manage the heat.

“So, I assure all our candidates and our members that the NDC is on the ballot. All our candidates will be on the ballot. The NDC has not been deregistered and won’t be deregistered. The laws of this country will speak and justice will run its course. So, I have nothing to worry about.”

On whether the party planned to report Justice Dashen to the National Judicial Council, Dickson said the NDC would instead pursue legal remedies through the appellate courts.

He said, “No, that’s not our focus. The judge has erred. We are not happy about it. But we have confidence in the Nigerian judicial system. As a person, I’ve always been a promoter and supporter of the judiciary, individual justices and judges.

“So, I’m not casting any personal aspersions on the judge. But I believe that they are doing a very critical job. And it’s our duty. All of us as leaders, to encourage and support them.

“Even when they err and make decisions that we disagree with, we have an opportunity to vent around and get other appellate courts to do what should be done. That’s what hierarchy of courts is all about. But this is a terrible hangman job.”

The NDC, which is due to file an appeal against the Lokoja judgment on Monday, insists the ruling neither deregistered the party nor stopped it from participating in the 2027 general election.