Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Femi Falana, has urged the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to prove they are not terrorist organisations.
His statement followed a Canadian Federal Court decision which described both parties as engaging in terrorism under Canadian law.
Justice Phuong Ngo made the ruling while rejecting the asylum appeal of Nigerian citizen Douglas Egharevba.
The judge said Nigeria’s two largest political parties often use violence, coercion, and manipulation of democratic systems to secure power.
Falana warned that the judgment has serious consequences for Nigeria’s democracy and international reputation.
Electoral Violence and Nigerian Law
Falana reminded Nigerians that the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022 defines terrorism as violence, intimidation, or coercion driven by political motives.
He added that electoral malpractice and the use of armed thugs during elections have become common in Nigeria.
“It is common knowledge that APC and PDP rig elections with thugs, police, and soldiers,” Falana said.
He noted that killings and voter intimidation occur frequently, yet offenders are rarely punished.
Both APC and PDP dismissed the Canadian ruling. The APC called the judge “ignorant,” while the PDP described the verdict as “mischievous.”
However, Falana condemned these reactions. He argued that insults cannot erase the issues raised by the court.
“Instead of attacking the Canadian judge, the APC and PDP should adopt legal steps to prove they are not terrorist organisations,” he stated.
Implications for Nigerians Abroad
Falana warned that the judgment may cause visa denials, deportations, or revoked permits for Nigerians linked to APC or PDP.
“If recognised in the United States, United Kingdom, or France, members of both parties may face travel bans or deportation,” he said.
Falana urged the Federal Government to hire immigration lawyers and challenge the ruling internationally.
“Protests against Canadian authorities cannot reverse this judgment. The government must act quickly to remove the stigma,” Falana warned.
He also stressed that security agencies and the judiciary must ensure political parties operate strictly within the law, especially during elections.
