*The Federal Government expresses deep concerns, and condemns the recent ‘baseless’ and ‘reckless’ ruling by a Canadian Federal court, asserting ‘Nigeria is a sovereign nation with a robust legal and constitutional framework governing political activities’

Isola Moses | 绿帽献妻

The Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed deep concerns over the recent ruling by a Canadian Federal court that “erroneously designated” certain political parties in Nigeria as “terrorist organisations”.

The Nigerian Government said the Canadian Court’s declaration was in pursuance of a case involving a Nigerian, Mr. Douglas Egharevba, who arrived in the North American country September 2017, and applied for inland refugee status under the immigration and Refugee Protection Act of Canada.

Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, Spokesperson of the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja, FCT, in a statement Friday, August 15, 2025, noted the “baseless classification is not only reckless but also constitutes an unacceptable interference in Nigeria鈥檚 internal affairs and democratic processes.”

The government said the Canadian Federal court carelessly made a sweeping accusation against the entire membership of a political party that has produced three democratically elected presidents, instead of focusing on individuals found wanting in their country.

The statement also noted: “The larger ramification of the decision is that every member of the mentioned political parties is a potential terrorist, and that is completely false and unacceptable.

“Nigeria is a sovereign nation with a robust legal and constitutional framework governing political activities.”

Ebienfa noted: “Our political parties operate within the ambit of the law, and are integral to the country鈥檚 vibrant democracy.

“To associate legitimate political entities with terrorism without credible evidence is a grave misrepresentation that undermines Nigeria鈥檚 democratic institutions and could incite unnecessary tension.”

Nigeria, therefore, urged the Canadian authorities to immediately retract this “erroneous designation, and refrain from actions that could be misconstrued as endorsing politically motivated narratives against Nigeria.”

The Spokesperson further stated: “Diplomatic channels remain open for constructive dialogue, and we urge the Government of Canada to engage with the relevant Nigerian institutions to rectify this error.

“Nigeria remains committed to the global fight against terrorism and has made significant strides in countering extremist groups within its borders.”

The Federal Government said: “We call on the international community to disregard this misguided ruling and reaffirm its confidence in Nigeria鈥檚 democratic governance and rule of law.”

The government as well urged Nigerian nationals to refrain from making unfounded allegations against their home land under the pretext of “seeking asylum or favours” from foreign entities.