The Attorney General of the Federation has backed a lawsuit seeking the deregistration of some political parties, including the African Democratic Congress, over alleged constitutional violations.

In a filing before the Federal High Court in Abuja, the AGF said it supports the suit to the extent of its constitutional responsibility, describing itself as the custodian of the Constitution and insisting it has a duty to support the enforcement of constitutional provisions.

The notice stated that the AGF is empowered under the Constitution to bring, defend, or support actions aimed at ensuring compliance with the law, including electoral regulations, in the public interest.

It argued that supporting the case would help strengthen constitutional supremacy, promote accountability, and improve access to justice for citizens challenging alleged breaches.

The filing further claimed that some political parties have failed to meet the minimum requirements under Section 225A of the Constitution, which was introduced to reduce ballot paper congestion and improve election administration.

According to the AGF, allowing such parties to remain registered could inflate ballot papers, increase public costs, and complicate the electoral process.

It added that the continued existence of non-performing parties amounts to a breach of constitutional duty by the electoral body, which can be challenged through public interest litigation.

The case forms part of a broader legal debate on the powers of the Independent National Electoral Commission to register or deregister political parties and the enforcement of constitutional standards in Nigeria’s electoral system.