Arise Television anchor, Rufai Oseni, has alleged that there may be attempts to block key opposition figures, including Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar, from appearing on the ballot in the 2027 general elections.
Rufai Oseni made the comment following a Federal High Court ruling that ordered the deregistration of several political parties.
It was reported that Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Accord Party, Action People’s Party (APP), Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), and Action Alliance Party (AAP) over alleged constitutional violations.
The judgment followed a suit filed by the Incorporated Trustees of the National Forum of Former Legislators, which claimed the affected parties failed to meet constitutional and statutory requirements for continued recognition as political parties.
The court also barred INEC from recognising the affected parties, accepting nominations from them, or allowing them participate in activities linked to the 2027 general elections.
If upheld, the ruling could impact several political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, linked to the ADC, and Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, who is expected to contest on the Accord Party platform.
Speaking on Arise TV’s Morning Show on Tuesday, Oseni described the ruling as a “test” of public reaction, warning that further developments could unfold ahead of the 2027 elections.
He alleged that opposition parties such as the ADC and others should remain cautious, suggesting that efforts may be underway to sideline major contenders.
According to him, the judgment reflects a broader political process shaping the 2027 electoral landscape, despite some of the affected parties recording electoral successes in recent polls.
Oseni also called for public vigilance, urging Nigerians to defend democratic processes and support reforms within the judiciary.
He said: “NDC, ADC should be careful because there will be attempt, and this is me predicting now, to ensure that Obi, Atiku and other big contenders are not on the ballot.
“This that you saw yesterday is just a test… more is still coming.
“Nigerians, it is you that will save your democracy. Judicial reforms have become so important as insecurity in Nigeria.”
